Go Back
featured image 12237

Fridge Almost Empty? Make This Tonight → Leftover Mashed Potatoes Almost Gone — Make This Tonight - Crispy Potato Cakes With Quick Pantry Toppings

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes (stiff is best)
  • 1 large egg (optional if mash is already very thick)
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs (plus more as needed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for lightness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or finely minced onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan), optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped herbs (chives, parsley, dill), optional
  • 2–3 tablespoons neutral oil (canola, avocado, or light olive oil) for frying
  • Fried or poached egg
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream with lemon and pepper
  • Hot sauce or chili crisp
  • Smoked salmon or leftover shredded chicken
  • Baby greens with a squeeze of lemon

Method
 

  1. Prep the mix: In a bowl, add mashed potatoes, egg (if using), flour or breadcrumbs, baking powder, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined. If it’s sticky and loose, add another tablespoon of flour or crumbs at a time until it holds together like soft dough.
  2. Add flavor: Fold in cheese and herbs, if you have them. Taste a pinch and adjust salt and pepper. Cold mash can be bland—season a touch more than you think.
  3. Shape the cakes: With damp hands, form 6–8 small patties about 1/2 inch thick. Thinner patties get crisper; thicker ones stay extra fluffy inside.
  4. Heat the pan: Set a large nonstick or well-seasoned skillet over medium heat. Add oil and let it shimmer. A hot pan gives you a golden crust fast.
  5. Pan-fry: Lay in the patties without crowding. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until deep golden and crisp. Adjust heat so they brown without burning. Add a bit more oil if the pan looks dry.
  6. Finish and rest: Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Sprinkle a pinch of salt while hot for extra pop.
  7. Top and serve: Add your favorite topping. An egg turns it into a full meal. A dollop of lemony yogurt and a handful of greens keeps it fresh.