If you’re looking for a delicious way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a golden, crispy treat, crispy mashed potato pancakes with a latke twist are your answer. These savory, cheesy pancakes combine the best parts of traditional potato latkes with the creaminess of mashed potatoes. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make these delightful pancakes.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes
- Resourceful and Delicious: A perfect way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.
- Crispy and Cheesy: Golden brown on the outside with a melty, cheesy interior.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors, herbs, and cheese to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will devour these crispy pancakes.
Ingredients for Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes (cooled) | 3 cups |
| Grated cheese (cheddar and gruyere recommended) | 1 cup |
| Finely chopped green onion | ¼ cup (1–2 onions) |
| Chopped fresh parsley | ¼ cup |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup (adjust as needed) |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Butter (for frying) | 4 teaspoons |
| Vegetable or neutral olive oil (for frying) | 4 teaspoons |
| All-purpose flour (for dredging) | About ¼ cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potato Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onion, parsley, garlic powder, and egg.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the all-purpose flour and mix until everything is well combined. If the mixture feels too wet to handle, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk or another egg.
2. Form the Pancakes
- Scoop about ¼ cup of the potato mixture and shape it into a patty.
- Place the patties on a parchment-lined tray.
- Lightly dredge each pancake in flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps create a crispy crust.
3. Heat the Pan
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 teaspoons of butter and 2 teaspoons of oil to the skillet and let it heat until shimmering. The combination of butter and oil ensures flavor and prevents the butter from burning.
4. Fry the Pancakes
- Place a few pancakes in the skillet, leaving enough space between them to prevent overcrowding.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Repeat the Process
- Wipe the skillet clean if needed and add the remaining butter and oil.
- Fry the remaining pancakes in batches, following the same process.
6. Serve Hot
- Serve the pancakes immediately while they’re still warm and crispy.
- Pair them with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate flavor experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
What Makes These Potato Pancakes Special?
- A New Take on Tradition: Combining the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the crispy edges of latkes gives you the best of both worlds.
- Cheesy Perfection: The addition of cheese takes these pancakes to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Family-Friendly: Easy to make and fun to eat, these pancakes are loved by both kids and adults.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or even a vegetarian main course.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes
- Use Cooled Mashed Potatoes: Freshly made mashed potatoes can be too soft. Cool them first for better texture.
- Adjust the Flour: Depending on the moisture of your potatoes, you may need to add more or less flour.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pancakes at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy pancakes.
- Watch the Heat: Keep the skillet at medium heat to ensure even browning without burning.
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan, feta, or mozzarella for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairings: Serve with sour cream, applesauce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Breakfast Option: Pair with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty morning meal.
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them on their own as a savory snack with your favorite dipping sauces.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store
- Refrigerator: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes for a crispy finish.
- Skillet: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side.
- Microwave: Heat for 30–60 seconds, though this method may soften the pancakes.
FAQs
1. Can I make these pancakes vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for flavor.
2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory spices and cheese.
3. How do I prevent the pancakes from falling apart?
Ensure the potato mixture is the right consistency—add more flour if it feels too wet.
4. Can I bake these pancakes instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake them on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. What other herbs can I use?
Try dill, thyme, or chives for a fresh, aromatic twist.
6. How do I make them gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
Crispy mashed potato pancakes with a latke twist are the ultimate combination of flavor, texture, and comfort. With their crispy exterior, creamy interior, and cheesy goodness, these pancakes are a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. Perfect for any meal or occasion, they’re easy to make and endlessly customizable. So grab those leftover mashed potatoes and whip up a batch today—you won’t be disappointed!