Here’s a crispy-on-the-outside, cheesy-on-the-inside recipe for Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes — perfect for leftover mashed potatoes or a quick comfort-food side!
🧀🥔 Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes
Ingredients
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3 cups mashed potatoes (cold leftovers work best)
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1 cup shredded cheese
(cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or a blend) -
1 egg
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⅓ cup flour (or ½ cup breadcrumbs)
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2–3 green onions, sliced (optional but great)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Oil or butter for frying
Optional add-ins:
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½ cup cooked bacon bits
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¼ cup Parmesan
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Herbs: parsley, chives, or dill
Instructions
1. Make the mixture
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In a large bowl combine:
mashed potatoes, egg, flour (or breadcrumbs), cheese, green onions, and seasonings. -
Mix until everything comes together.
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If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour/breadcrumbs.
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If it’s too dry, mix in 1–2 tablespoons milk.
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2. Shape the cakes
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Scoop ¼-cup portions and form into patties, about ½–¾ inch thick.
3. Fry
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Heat 2–3 tablespoons oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Place the patties in the pan without crowding.
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Cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.
Serve with
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Sour cream
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Ranch or garlic dip
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Chives
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Hot sauce
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Gravy
Tips
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Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape much better.
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Add extra cheese in the center if you want gooey, molten cheese pockets.
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These freeze well—flash-freeze on a tray, then store in a bag.
Want variations?
I can make:
🔥 Jalapeño cheddar potato cakes
🥓 Bacon ranch potato cakes
🧇 Potato-cake waffles (crispiest version!)
🧈 Air-fryer directions
Just tell me!