Discover the comforting, crispy delight of Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes. These cakes are an easy way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a dish that is sure to impress. Perfectly golden and fluffy on the inside, they make a fantastic addition to any meal of the day. Whether you’re preparing breakfast, a side dish for dinner, or a savory snack for the family, this versatile recipe is quick, simple, and budget-friendly. The nostalgic flavor combined with a delightful crunch makes these potato cakes not only satisfying but also a wonderful way to use up those cold mashed potatoes lingering in your fridge.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of potato cakes sizzling on the stove. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious treat in under 20 minutes. Plus, they’re customizable! Add your favorite ingredients like herbs or spices to create a personal twist. So whether you’re in search of an easy weeknight dinner or a delightful snack for entertaining, these potato cakes are sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this scrumptious, nostalgic dish!
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes
- Quick and easy to prepare: Takes only 20 minutes to whip up these delicious cakes.
- Versatile dish: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack time.
- Uses leftovers: A great way to utilize cold mashed potatoes sitting in your fridge.
- Customizable: Feel free to add any additional ingredients, such as herbs or different cheeses.
- Delicious textures: Enjoy a crispy exterior with a fluffy interior!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin cooking your delicious potato cakes, making sure your kitchen is prepared is crucial. Start by gathering all the ingredients, which you can generally find around the house or at your local grocery store. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining the ingredients, a spatula or spoon for mixing, and a skillet for frying. Using a non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking these cakes without them sticking, or alternatively, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet may work wonderfully, ensuring even heat distribution and a crispy finish.
Additionally, be prepared with measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions, especially when mixing in spices and seasonings. Ensuring your mashed potatoes are cold beforehand is essential—this helps the cakes maintain their shape while frying. Once you have everything prepped, you’ll be ready to create this delectable dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Sour cream and extra chopped chives for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by taking a mixing bowl and adding the cold mashed potatoes. Then crack the egg into the bowl and sprinkle in the flour. If you’re using cheese, add the shredded cheddar along with the chopped green onions or chives. Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Thoroughly combine the ingredients until you have a uniform dough-like mixture. This step is crucial as it blends together all the flavors that will elevate your potato cakes.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Once your mixture is well-combined, it’s time to form the potato cakes. Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball, then flatten it to create a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into 6–8 even patties. Ensuring they are the same size will promote even cooking, resulting in perfectly crispy potato cakes.
Step 3: Cook the Cakes
Now, heat the vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes shimmering. Carefully place the formed patties into your hot skillet, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan, as that can prevent the cakes from getting crispy. Allow them to cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see them turn a beautiful golden brown. Once done, carefully remove them from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding cooked bacon or ham bits for a meaty twist!
- Vegetables: Incorporate shredded carrots or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spices: For a kick of flavor, add smoked paprika, cayenne, or your favorite seasoning blends.
Cooking Notes
- Always use cold mashed potatoes for optimal texture and ease in shaping.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet as it can prevent the cakes from properly browning.
- Let each cake cook undisturbed to develop a nice crust before flipping it over.
- If you prefer a lighter option, try baking the cakes in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives for a classic touch.
- Pair with a side salad for a lighter dinner option.
Tips
- Always taste and adjust your seasoning in the potato mixture before cooking.
- Experiment with different cheese types like mozzarella or pepper jack for a delightful variation.
- For a crispier texture, consider chilling the formed patties for 15 minutes before frying.
- Serve with a side of applesauce or spicy ketchup for an exciting flavor contrast.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cake
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
FAQs
Can I make the potato cakes in advance?
Yes! You can make the mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just shape the patties when you’re ready to cook.
What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
Any shredded cheese will work! Feel free to experiment with different varieties for unique flavors.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, making sure it’s suitable for binding.
Can I freeze the potato cakes?
Yes, freeze them after cooking and allow them to cool. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes are not just a delicious meal option; they represent a wonderfully simple way to turn ordinary leftovers into extraordinary moments. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, every bite brings a wave of nostalgia and pleasure. These potato cakes make for the perfect accompaniment to any main dish or can stand alone as a satisfying snack. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and custom variations in the comments below, and be sure to pass this recipe on to friends and family. Let’s keep the tradition alive with this flavorful, comforting dish that reminds us of home!
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Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes are a comforting and crispy delight, transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a dish that impresses.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Sour cream and extra chopped chives for topping
Instructions
- Start by taking a mixing bowl and adding the cold mashed potatoes. Then crack the egg into the bowl and sprinkle in the flour. If you’re using cheese, add the shredded cheddar along with the chopped green onions or chives. Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Thoroughly combine the ingredients until you have a uniform dough-like mixture.
- Once your mixture is well-combined, it’s time to form the potato cakes. Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball, then flatten it to create a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into 6–8 even patties.
- Now, heat the vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes shimmering. Carefully place the formed patties into your hot skillet, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Allow them to cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
Notes
Always use cold mashed potatoes for optimal texture and ease in shaping. Don’t overcrowd the skillet as it can prevent the cakes from properly browning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Protein: 4 g