Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes: A Comfort Food Favorite

There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a new, crispy, golden delight. Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are the ultimate comfort food—packed with gooey cheese, savory bacon, and fresh green onions. These easy-to-make cakes are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish for your next meal. Let’s dive into how you can create this irresistible dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes

Category	Ingredient	Quantity
Base Mixture	Mashed potatoes (chilled)	2 cups
	Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup
	Cooked and crumbled bacon	1/4 cup
	Chopped green onions	1/4 cup
Binding Ingredients	Egg (beaten)	1
	All-purpose flour	1/2 cup
Seasoning	Salt	To taste
	Pepper	To taste
For Frying	Vegetable oil	As needed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly Delicious: This recipe turns simple ingredients into a gourmet-level dish with minimal effort.
• Versatile: Serve as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.
• Budget-Friendly: A great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
• Crispy and Cheesy: The golden crust pairs beautifully with the cheesy interior.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or even substitute bacon for a vegetarian option.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, ensure you have all the ingredients ready. Chilled mashed potatoes work best as they hold their shape better when forming the cakes.

2. Prepare the Potato Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
• Add the beaten egg and all-purpose flour to the bowl.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Form the Potato Cakes

• Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small, round cake.
• Flatten slightly to about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.
• Place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

4. Heat the Oil

• Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when a small drop of the mixture is added.

5. Fry the Potato Cakes

• Carefully place the potato cakes into the skillet in batches.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
• Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.

6. Drain Excess Oil

• Remove the cooked potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels.
• Let them sit briefly to drain any excess oil.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the potato cakes warm, garnished with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream.
• Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Potato Cakes

1. Use Chilled Mashed Potatoes

Cold mashed potatoes are firmer, making it easier to shape the cakes and preventing them from falling apart.

2. Don’t Skip the Flour

Flour acts as a binder, ensuring the cakes hold their shape while frying.

3. Cook in Batches

Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this lowers the oil temperature and results in uneven cooking.

4. Get Creative with Add-Ins

Add chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for an extra burst of flavor. You can also substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for a vegetarian option.

5. Test the Oil

To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of the mixture into the skillet. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (2 Cakes)
Calories	200
Protein	8g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	300mg

Serving Suggestions

• As a Snack: Serve with sour cream or ketchup for dipping.
• Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or a hearty salad.
• Appetizer: Arrange on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces for parties.
• Breakfast: Top with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a luxurious brunch option.

FAQs About Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes

1. Can I make these potato cakes gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour alternative like almond flour or rice flour.

2. Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the cakes on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

4. Can I freeze the potato cakes?

Yes! Freeze uncooked cakes on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

5. What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a cheese blend for different flavors.

6. How do I make them extra crispy?

Use Panko breadcrumbs in the mixture or coat the cakes lightly with breadcrumbs before frying for an extra crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are everything you want in a comfort food—crunchy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness. They’re versatile, easy to make, and a creative way to use up leftovers. Whether you’re preparing a snack for yourself or serving guests, these potato cakes will always impress.

Call to Action

Ready to turn your leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary? Gather your ingredients and try these Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes today. They’re guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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