Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes Recipe

The Fluffiest Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes Recipe Ever

Crispy parmesan mashed potato cakes offer a delightful twist on classic comfort food.

These golden-brown delicacies emerge from leftover mashed potatoes, creating magic in your kitchen.

You’ll adore how simple ingredients combine into something extraordinary.

Each bite promises a crunchy exterior with a creamy, cheesy center that melts perfectly.

Herbs and parmesan cheese elevate these potato cakes from ordinary to spectacular.

The recipe works brilliantly as a side dish or standalone snack that impresses everyone at the table.

Grab a skillet and let’s turn humble potatoes into something memorable!

Keep Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes Fresh For Later

  • Refrigerate leftover potato cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they crisp up beautifully.
  • Avoid microwaving, as this can make the cakes soggy and lose their delightful crunch.
  • Want to freeze these tasty treats? Wrap each potato cake individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Pro tip: For best texture, consume within the first two days of making for maximum flavor and crispy exterior.

Best Pairings For Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

  • Pair with Zesty Green Salad: Toss a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the potato cakes, providing a crisp and tangy contrast.
  • Match with Herbed Sour Cream Dip: Whip up a quick dipping sauce using sour cream, chopped chives, and a dash of garlic powder to complement the savory Parmesan potato cakes.
  • Complement with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to refresh the palate and balance the crispy, cheesy potato cakes.
  • Serve Alongside Grilled Protein: Pair with roasted chicken or pan-seared salmon to transform these potato cakes into a complete and satisfying meal.

New Spins On Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

  • Cheesy Herb Haven: Swap green onions with fresh chopped basil, rosemary, and thyme. Add extra sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Magic: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano. Top with tzatziki sauce for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Bacon Lover's Dream: Mix crispy crumbled bacon bits into the potato mixture. Garnish with extra bacon pieces and a drizzle of sour cream for added richness.
  • Spicy Southwest Kick: Add diced jalapeños, cumin, and pepper jack cheese. Serve with a side of fresh salsa and cilantro for a zesty southwestern flair.

FAQs For Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

Here are the FAQs for Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes:

  • What makes these potato cakes different from regular potato pancakes?

These potato cakes are unique because they’re made with Parmesan cheese, which adds a rich, savory flavor and helps create a crispy golden exterior that regular potato pancakes don’t typically have.

  • Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

While fresh mashed potatoes work best, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure they’re cooled and relatively thick so the patties hold their shape during cooking.

  • How do I prevent my potato cakes from falling apart?

The key is to mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensure the mixture is well-combined, and form compact patties. Chilling the mixture for 15-20 minutes before cooking can also help them stay together better.

  • Are these potato cakes suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, these potato cakes are vegetarian-friendly. They’re made with basic ingredients like potatoes, eggs, flour, and cheese, making them a great option for vegetarian meals or side dishes.

Why Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes Are A Hit

  • Craft Quickly: These potato cakes whip up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous cooking adventures.
  • Rescue Leftover Magic: Transform yesterday's mashed potatoes into crispy, delectable golden cakes that breathe new life into refrigerated remnants, reducing food waste and saving money.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Kids and adults alike will adore these cheesy, crispy potato patties – a universally appealing side dish that brings smiles around the dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
  • Versatile Serving Champion: Serve alongside breakfast eggs, as a party appetizer, or tucked into a casual dinner spread, these potato cakes adapt effortlessly to any mealtime occasion.

Everything In Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

Main Ingredients:

Potato Base: – Mashed Potatoes: Creamy foundation for the potato cakes, best when cold and slightly firm for easier shaping.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, salty flavor and helps bind the mixture, choose freshly grated for best taste.

Binding Ingredients: – Flour, Egg: Help hold the potato cakes together and create a crisp exterior, all-purpose flour works well.

Seasoning Blend: – Green Onions, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic notes, fresh green onions add a nice crisp texture.

Cooking Ingredients: – Butter or Oil: Creates a golden, crispy exterior when frying, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil.

How To Whip Up Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

Step 1: Craft the Potato Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • All-purpose flour
  • Beaten egg
  • Finely chopped green onions
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Blend these ingredients thoroughly until they form a cohesive, well-mixed combination. Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, shape the mixture into delicate patties. Each patty should be about the size of your palm and roughly half an inch thick.

Step 2: Sizzle to Golden Perfection

Prepare a large skillet by heating butter or cooking oil over medium heat. Carefully place the potato patties into the hot pan, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Listen for that satisfying sizzle as the cakes begin to cook. Watch closely as the edges turn a beautiful golden brown, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Step 3: Drain and Plate

Once the potato cakes achieve a crispy, golden exterior, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This quick step helps absorb any excess oil, ensuring a light and crispy texture. The paper towels will catch the extra grease, leaving you with perfectly textured potato cakes.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the golden potato cakes on a serving platter. These delightful treats are best enjoyed immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Consider pairing them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Suggestions For Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes

  • Customize Your Texture: Adjust the flour amount to control the crispiness and binding of your potato cakes, using less for a softer interior or more for a firmer exterior.
  • Master the Perfect Sear: Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and a gorgeous golden-brown crust that adds incredible flavor and crunch.
  • Boost Dietary Flexibility: Swap regular flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or rice flour to make these potato cakes suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
  • Elevate Leftover Potential: Refrigerate potato cake mixture for up to 24 hours, allowing flavors to meld and making prep easier for quick weeknight meals.
  • Control Oil Temperature: Maintain medium heat to prevent burning and ensure a crispy exterior with a creamy, tender center that melts in your mouth.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes Recipe

Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy parmesan mashed potato cakes blend golden-brown edges with creamy interior, delivering comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen. Cheese-infused potato patties promise delightful crunch and rich flavor that will draw hungry guests to the table.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) cold mashed potatoes
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg

Binding & Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons (8 g) green onions or chives, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking & Garnish Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter or olive oil
  • Sour cream
  • Extra Parmesan
  • Chopped fresh herbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the foundational mixture by thoroughly combining mashed potatoes with grated Parmesan, all-purpose flour, a whisked egg, finely chopped green onions, aromatic garlic powder, and seasoning.
  2. Gently fold ingredients until uniform, ensuring even distribution of flavors and preventing overmixing which could make the mixture dense.
  3. Using clean hands or a precise measuring scoop, craft uniform patties approximately half-inch thick, carefully compressing the mixture to maintain structural integrity.
  4. Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, allowing butter or neutral cooking oil to shimmer and coat the surface evenly.
  5. Delicately place potato cakes into the hot pan, maintaining sufficient spacing to prevent overcrowding and ensure optimal crispy exterior.
  6. Monitor cooking progression, allowing each side to transform into a rich golden-brown color, approximately three to four minutes per surface.
  7. Utilize paper towels to absorb excess lipids, creating a lighter, less greasy finished product.
  8. Rest potato cakes momentarily on an elevated surface to preserve their crispness before serving warm as a delectable side dish or appetizer.

Notes

  • Ensure mashed potatoes are cooled and slightly firm before mixing to help patties hold together better during cooking.
  • Use cold mashed potatoes straight from the refrigerator for more compact and easier-to-handle potato cakes.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with almond flour or cornstarch to maintain crispy texture.
  • Add extra flavor by incorporating finely chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or dill into the mixture for a fresh twist.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 205
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 62 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star