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What to Do With Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Crispy Potato Cakes

Turn cold leftover mashed potatoes into crisp, golden potato cakes in 20 minutes. An easy lunch or side made with what you already have.

TIME
20 min
SERVES
4
ENERGY
230 cal
Golden crispy potato cakes made from leftover mashed potatoes
Built for the food you already have.

If you are wondering what to do with leftover mashed potatoes, skip reheating them into a sad echo of last night’s dinner. Cold mash has exactly the texture you need for crisp potato cakes: firm enough to shape, soft enough to stay fluffy in the middle.

This is a particularly useful recipe after a roast dinner or holiday meal. A cup of peas, a spoonful of chopped herbs, the end of a block of cheese, or a little cooked cabbage can all disappear into the mixture. In the UK, the same idea sits close to bubble and squeak; in the US, think of it as the easiest possible potato patty.

What makes the cakes stay together?

Start with thoroughly chilled mash. One egg binds the mixture and a small amount of flour absorbs excess moisture. Because every batch of mashed potatoes contains a different amount of butter and milk, treat the flour as an adjustment rather than a fixed rule. The mixture should feel soft but hold a flattened shape in your hand.

Serve them without another shopping trip

Top the cakes with a fried egg, spoon over leftover gravy, or serve them beside any vegetables that still need using. They also make a sturdy base for smoked fish, beans, or yesterday’s roast chicken. Refrigerate cooked cakes promptly and eat them within three to four days.

From fridge to table

How to make it

  1. 01

    Mix the cold mashed potatoes, egg, cheese, flour, green onions, salt, and pepper. The mixture should hold its shape; add another spoonful of flour if it is very soft.

  2. 02

    Divide into 8 portions, roll gently, and flatten each into a cake about 1.5 cm (½ inch) thick.

  3. 03

    Heat the oil in a wide frying pan over medium heat. Add the cakes without crowding the pan.

  4. 04

    Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden and hot through. Let them sit for a minute before serving.

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