Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes (Potato Patties) Recipe

Mashed Potato Cakes made from leftover mashed potatoes and a few simple ingredients are an easy, delicious way to use up fridge leftovers. These potato patties are crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfect for a quick snack or side dish.

I often make potato patties when we have leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge—cheddar-mashed potatoes work especially well. This recipe is great year-round and is a simple way to transform leftovers into something everyone will enjoy.

These are not traditional potato pancakes or latkes. They’re an uncomplicated, tasty way to reuse mashed potatoes with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Just a few basic ingredients are required. Add herbs, spices, or cheese to suit your taste.

• Mashed potatoes — cold mashed potatoes from the fridge work best.
• Large egg — helps bind the mixture.
• Flour — all-purpose flour to help form the cakes.
• Oil — vegetable or olive oil for pan-frying; a bit of butter adds flavor. If using a non-stick skillet, you’ll need less oil.
• Cheddar or Parmesan cheese — optional for extra flavor.
• Onion powder — optional, for flavor without chopping fresh onions.

Note — Mashed potatoes vary in seasoning, so I don’t list many extra spices; add salt, pepper or other seasonings as needed based on your leftovers.

How to Make Potato Patties with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Beat the egg lightly in a mixing bowl. Add the cold mashed potatoes and 1 tablespoon of flour, stirring until the mixture comes together and is firm enough to handle. If the mixture is sticky, add up to 1 more tablespoon of flour.

If you like, stir in shredded cheese, onion powder, or extra salt and pepper at this stage.

Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into a ball, then gently flatten into a patty roughly 1/2 inch thick. Heat 1–2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

When the skillet is hot, arrange the patties in a single layer — you can usually fit up to four at a time depending on skillet size. Fry until golden and crisp, then flip and cook the other side.

Cook Time

Cook the patties about 2–3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and heated through. Drain briefly on paper towels if needed.

To keep a larger batch warm, place cooked patties on a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet and hold in a 250–300°F (120–150°C) oven. Do not cover, or they will lose their crispness.

What to Serve with Mashed Potato Cakes

Serve these cakes as a side or a main. They’re great with sour cream, chives or green onions, applesauce, or a simple salad. They also pair well with Thanksgiving leftovers such as turkey, cranberry sauce, or sweet potatoes.

They’re a versatile side for many main dishes and work well alongside roasted or pan-fried proteins and sautéed vegetables.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for convenience or on the stovetop to restore crispiness.