Description
Crispy, golden, and delightfully fluffy, Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes are the ultimate comfort food made easy. This easy recipe transforms cold mashed potatoes into a flavorful treat perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, a cozy side dish, or a savory snack, these potato cakes are a go-to favorite. They’re budget-friendly, easy to make, and packed with rich, nostalgic flavor—an ideal choice for dinner ideas or easy recipe planning.
Ingredients
2 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 large egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
Sour cream and extra chopped chives for topping
Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, flour, cheese (if using), green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form into 6–8 evenly sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Place patties in skillet without overcrowding. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with sour cream and chives, or your preferred topping.
Notes
Use cold mashed potatoes for the best texture and easy shaping.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — it helps each cake crisp up perfectly.
Let the cakes sit undisturbed while cooking to form a proper crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Snack / Side
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg