There’s something undeniably magical about the crispy exterior and fluffy interior of mashed potato cakes. Picture this: golden-brown morsels that make your mouth water just by looking at them. The aroma wafts through the air, enticing you to take that first bite, revealing a creamy potato center that’s pure heaven.
I remember the first time I made these delightful mashed potato cakes for my friends. They gathered around, eyes wide with anticipation, as I plated them up. The laughter and joy they brought to our dinner table were priceless. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers, these cakes are bound to create memorable moments.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These mashed potato cakes are not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor
- Visually appealing and crispy on the outside, they’re perfect for any occasion
- You can customize them with various toppings or fillings based on your preferences
- Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use leftover mashed potatoes!
Every time I serve these mashed potato cakes, my friends ask for seconds, and sometimes thirds!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience or freshly made ones; just ensure they’re smooth and lump-free.
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Eggs: One or two eggs help bind the mixture together; they add a richness to the flavor.
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Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy exterior; panko works wonders too!
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Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a burst of flavor; feel free to substitute with chives if you prefer.
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Cheddar Cheese: Grated sharp cheddar adds depth; try other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey twist.
For seasoning:
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; always season your mixture well before shaping.
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Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the taste profile; fresh minced garlic is another great option.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First things first: you’re going to want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Gather your mashed potatoes in a large bowl and add in one egg at a time. Mix well until everything is combined thoroughly and creamy. The texture should be smooth enough to form patties but still hold its shape.
Next, fold in the breadcrumbs along with chopped green onions and grated cheese until evenly distributed. This step adds wonderful texture and flavor bursts; I love using sharp cheddar for that extra kick.
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and garlic powder according to your taste preferences. Remember, seasoning makes all the difference—so don’t skip this step!
Shape the mixture into small patties using your hands—think of them as little savory clouds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each cake so they can crisp up nicely.
Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Flip halfway through for even cooking; you want every side to be equally delectable.
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm right out of the oven! Serve alongside sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This whimsical journey into mashed potato cake-making is sure to leave you satisfied and smiling—all without too much fuss in the kitchen!
You Must Know
- Mashed potato cakes are a delightful way to use leftovers, transforming them into crispy, golden treats
- The aroma wafting through the kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or sides for any meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your mashed potatoes with eggs and seasoning before shaping them into patties. Cook them in a hot skillet until crispy and golden.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to add cheese, herbs, or even chopped vegetables to your mashed potato mixture for extra flavor and texture. Customize it based on your pantry staples.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mashed potato cakes in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy mashed potato cakes, ensure your potatoes are well-drained and not too moist
- Using cold potatoes helps them hold shape better while frying
- Finally, don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and that lovely crunch
There was that one holiday dinner where my aunt brought her famous mashed potato cakes. They disappeared faster than you could say “seconds,” with everyone clamoring for the recipe!

FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for mashed potato cakes?
Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze mashed potato cakes?
Yes, you can freeze them after frying; just reheat directly from frozen when needed.
How do I know when my cakes are done cooking?
Look for a deep golden brown color and a crispy texture on both sides before serving.
Mashed Potato Cakes
Mashed potato cakes are a delightful way to elevate your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden bites that everyone will love. With a perfectly crunchy exterior and a creamy inside, these cakes are ideal for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. Customizable with various toppings or fillings, they offer endless flavor possibilities. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (smooth and lump-free)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (grated)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes and eggs until smooth.
- Fold in breadcrumbs, green onions, cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Shape the mixture into small patties and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Let cool slightly before serving with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake pop (45g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg




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