Introduction to Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, you often find yourself staring at leftover mashed potatoes, wondering how to transform them into something magical. Enter the Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties! These little golden wonders are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re also a delightful way to impress your loved ones. Imagine biting into a crispy exterior, only to discover a gooey, cheesy center. It’s comfort food at its finest, and trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties
Let’s be real: life gets busy, and we all need a go-to recipe that’s both easy and delicious. These Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties check all the boxes! They come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for gatherings. Plus, the combination of crispy edges and cheesy goodness is simply irresistible. You’ll find yourself making these again and again!
Ingredients for Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mashed Potatoes: The star of the show! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, but fresh ones can shine just as bright.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving that gooey texture we all crave.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese!
- Chopped Parsley: A fresh herb that brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Flour: Helps bind everything together, giving the patties structure. You can use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring your patties hold their shape while cooking.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for that perfect flavor.
- Butter or Oil: For frying, giving the patties that golden, crispy exterior. Olive oil or coconut oil can be great alternatives.
For those adventurous souls, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine your leftover mashed potatoes with flour, egg, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or a spatula to mix everything until it’s smooth and well-blended. This step is crucial for ensuring your Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties hold together beautifully. The mixture should be thick but not dry, so adjust the flour if needed. Trust me, this is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Add Cheese and Herbs
Now, it’s time to bring in the flavor! Stir in the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley into your potato mixture. Make sure everything is evenly combined. The cheese will melt and create that gooey center we all love. Plus, the parsley adds a fresh touch that brightens up the dish. This step is where your Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties start to take on a delicious personality!
Step 3: Shape the Patties
With your mixture ready, it’s time to shape it into patties. Take a handful of the mixture and form it into round patties about ½ inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm adds character! Place them on a plate as you go. This is where the anticipation builds for those crispy bites!
Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Let it melt and coat the bottom of the pan. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the patties. This step is key for achieving that golden, crispy exterior. The aroma of butter or oil heating up is simply irresistible!
Step 5: Cook the Patties
Now comes the fun part! Carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook each patty for about 3–4 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them over and repeat on the other side. The sound of sizzling is music to my ears! Once they’re done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the patties cool slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit, making them easier to handle. Once cooled, sprinkle with extra parsley for a pop of color. Serve them warm, and watch everyone dive in! These Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties are sure to be a hit!
Tips for Success
- Use cold mashed potatoes for better texture; they hold together well.
- Don’t skip the chilling step if you have time; it helps the patties firm up.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors; gouda or pepper jack can be fun!
- Keep the skillet at medium heat to avoid burning; patience is key!
- Serve with a variety of dips for added excitement; sour cream or spicy mayo are great choices!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
- Fork or Spatula: For mixing the potato mixture. A wooden spoon is a great alternative.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for frying. A cast-iron skillet can add extra crispiness.
- Spatula: For flipping the patties. A slotted spatula helps drain excess oil.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a fiery twist that will wake up your taste buds!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives, dill, or thyme for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap in different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique cheesy experience.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or green onions for added nutrition and color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or almond flour to make these patties suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties with a dollop of sour cream or a zesty garlic dip for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the patties.
- For drinks, consider a chilled sparkling water or a light beer to complement the dish.
- Garnish with extra parsley or chives for a beautiful presentation that impresses!
FAQs about Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Absolutely! While leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe, fresh ones work just as well. Just make sure they’re cooled down a bit before mixing.
How do I store leftover patties?
Store any leftover Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet for that crispy texture!
Can I freeze these patties?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What dips pair well with these patties?
These patties are delicious with sour cream, garlic dip, or even a spicy aioli. The creamy dips complement the crispy texture perfectly!
Can I make these patties vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce, and use plant-based cheese. You’ll still enjoy those crispy, cheesy flavors!
Final Thoughts
Creating Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties is more than just cooking; it’s about transforming simple ingredients into a delightful experience. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a warm, cheesy center that brings comfort and joy. Whether you’re using up leftovers or impressing guests, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. I love how they spark conversations and smiles around the table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll be a staple in your home!
Print
Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties are a must-try!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Makes 8 patties 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties are golden on the outside and irresistibly gooey inside — the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 egg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and parsley until evenly combined.
- Shape mixture into round patties about ½ inch thick.
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
- Let cool slightly to allow cheese to set, then sprinkle with extra parsley.
- Serve warm with sour cream or garlic dip.
Notes
- These patties are a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes.
- Adjust the cheese types based on your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
