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Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes

Nettie
Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Coated in buttery Ritz crumbs or crunchy panko and pan-fried until golden, they’re packed with bacon, cheddar, and scallions for a RIdic-ulicious appetizer, snack, or side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16 appetizers
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes cold leftover
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese or Colby Jack shredded
  • ¼ cup bacon cooked about 2–3 strips, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons scallions sliced or chopped chives
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for coating
  • 3 tablespoons oil and/or butter for frying

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, cheese, bacon, scallions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
  • If the mixture feels too soft to shape, add 1–2 tablespoons of crumbs just to help it hold together (optional).
  • Scoop mixture using a medium cookie scoop or tablespoon. Roll into a ball, then gently flatten into mini patties about 2–2½ inches wide and ½ inch thick.
  • Place crushed crackers or panko in a shallow dish. Gently press each patty into the crumbs to lightly coat both sides.
  • (Optional) If needed, refrigerate coated cakes for 15–20 minutes to firm up before frying.
  • Heat oil and/or butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  • Pan-fry cakes in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with dipping sauces and optional toppings such as extra scallions, bacon, or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

When it comes to the nutrition information provided for recipes, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s just an estimate. The actual nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Be mindful that any nutritional information provided is intended as a general guideline rather than exact values.

Notes

  • Coating the cakes in panko or crushed Ritz gives a crispier, golden exterior.
  • If your mashed potatoes are extra creamy, chilling shaped cakes helps them stay firm.
  • Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack adds spice and smoked gouda gives a rich twist.
  • For extra golden color, use a combo of butter and oil for frying.

Storage & Reheating

  • Store: In an airtight container up to 3 days in the fridge.
  • Reheat: In a skillet or air fryer (375°F) for a few minutes to re-crisp.
  • Freeze: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Variations (Optional)

  • Spicy: Add diced jalapeño or swap cheese for pepper jack.
  • Loaded-loaded: Add more bacon and a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • Herb lovers: Try parsley, dill, or thyme for a fresh twist.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed GF crackers.

Nutrition

Serving: 2appetizersCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 87mgPotassium: 108mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 62IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 37mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword cheesy potato cakes, crispy potato cakes, leftover mashed potato, loaded mashed potato cakes, mashed potato appetizer, thanksgiving leftovers
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