Mashed Potato Pancakes Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting and delicious as homemade Mashed Potato Pancakes. This classic dish takes simple mashed potatoes and transforms them into golden, crispy pancakes that are soft on the inside and wonderfully crunchy on the outside. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or making them fresh, these pancakes are an irresistible way to enjoy the familiar taste of potatoes with a delightful twist. They’re quick to whip up, satisfying to eat, and perfect for any meal of the day. Get ready to fall in love with how easily these savory bites can steal the show at your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Mashed Potato Pancakes lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role: from the creamy mashed potatoes that form the base to the cheese that adds a gooey richness and green onions that bring a fresh pop of flavor and color. Together, they create a perfect blend of tastes and textures.

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes: Leftover mashed potatoes work best as they are drier and easier to shape.
• 1 large egg (beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the pancakes together.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a dough-like consistency and gives structure.
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan): Adds gooeyness and a flavorful kick.
• 2 tablespoons green onions (chopped): Offers a subtle oniony brightness and vibrant color.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a bit of warmth and spice.
• 2 tablespoons butter or neutral oil (for frying): Ensures a golden, crispy exterior.

How to Make Mashed Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by gathering your cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In a large mixing bowl, combine all these ingredients thoroughly. The goal is to achieve a dough-like consistency that is firm enough to hold its shape but still moist enough to be tender. If the mixture feels too wet, just add a little more flour until it’s perfect.

Step 2: Shape the Pancakes

Once your mixture is ready, scoop about 2 tablespoons of it and gently form into small patties roughly half an inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect rounds—rustic shapes add charm! These patties should hold together easily without crumbling when you handle them.

Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection

Heat butter or your choice of a neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place each potato patty in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook the pancakes for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This crispy exterior paired with the creamy inside is what makes Mashed Potato Pancakes so irresistible.

Step 4: Drain and Serve Warm

When your pancakes are cooked to crispy perfection, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This step helps absorb any excess oil and keeps the pancakes delightfully crisp. Serve them warm with your favorite accompaniments for a truly satisfying bite.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Pancakes

Garnishes

The right garnish can elevate Mashed Potato Pancakes from simple to spectacular. A dollop of tangy sour cream or creamy Greek yogurt adds a cool contrast to the warmth and crispiness of the pancakes. Fresh chopped chives or green onions sprinkled on top add a fresh pop of color and flavor. For a touch of sweetness, a spoonful of applesauce pairs beautifully, balancing savory and sweet.

Side Dishes

Mashed Potato Pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes. Try them with a fresh garden salad for a light meal or alongside sautéed greens like spinach or kale to add some greenery. They also complement hearty breakfasts perfectly when paired with eggs and bacon, or work wonderfully as a side for roasted meats during dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, get creative with your Mashed Potato Pancakes presentation. Stack them like mini potato pancakes sandwiches layered with smoked salmon and cream cheese. Or serve them topped with a poached egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for an elegant brunch dish. These pancakes are a fantastic canvas for all kinds of flavors and garnishes, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Mashed Potato Pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them gently to bring back their crispiness and warmth.

Freezing

Mashed Potato Pancakes freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead option. Place the cooled pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to a month and quickly reheated whenever you need a comforting snack or side.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to maintain their crispy texture. Instead, warm them in a hot skillet with a little butter or oil for a few minutes on each side. This will bring back that irresistible crunch while keeping the inside creamy and soft.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! Fresh mashed potatoes work well, but make sure they’re cooled completely before mixing to prevent the pancakes from being too soft and falling apart.

What type of cheese works best in Mashed Potato Pancakes?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan all work wonderfully. Each cheese offers a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

How do I make these dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or even use cornstarch to maintain the structure without gluten.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

What’s a good alternative to butter for frying?

A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works perfectly and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust without overpowering the flavors.

Final Thoughts

Mashed Potato Pancakes are truly one of those simple pleasures that bring warmth and joy to the table. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, plus endless ways to customize and serve, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try — once you do, these delightful pancakes will earn a cherished spot in your kitchen repertoire!

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