Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delightful and crispy side dish with these savory pancakes. The combination of mashed potatoes, onions, and cheese creates a rich flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is a creative way to repurpose leftovers, making it a staple in many cuisines around the world. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of these pancakes are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients

• leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 finely chopped green onions
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Add Cheese and Onions: If using cheese and green onions, fold them into the potato mixture.
3. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 8 portions. Form each portion into a disk, about 3 ½ inches in diameter.
4. Coat with Breadcrumbs (Optional): Place panko breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Dredge each patty in the breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
5. Heat Oil: In a large cast-iron skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
6. Fry Pancakes: Fry the potato pancakes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
7. Serve: Drain the pancakes on paper towels and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions.

Top Tips

• Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Chilled mashed potatoes help the pancakes hold their shape better.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: If the mixture is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid dense pancakes.
• Use Enough Oil: Ensure the pan is well-oiled for a crispy exterior.
• Keep Warm: If cooking in batches, keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven (200°F) until ready to serve.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Swiss, pepper jack, or parmesan for unique flavors.

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Sweet Potato Version: Use leftover mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter pancake.
• Italian Style: Add grated Parmesan and chopped basil for an Italian flair.
• Mexican Twist: Top with salsa, sour cream, and diced avocado for a Mexican-inspired dish.
• Greek Influence: Use feta cheese and chopped scallions for a Greek-inspired flavor.

Nutritional Guide

Additional nutritional notes: These pancakes are a good source of carbohydrates and can be a satisfying side dish. Adding cheese and breadcrumbs increases the calorie and fat content, but also enhances the flavor and texture. Consider using lighter oils or reducing the amount of cheese for a healthier version.