In a bustling kitchen filled with the aroma of warming spices, I overheard someone say, “What do I do with all these mashed potatoes?” That’s when it hit me: Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes! A perfect way to breathe new life into those leftover mashed potatoes, these pancakes promise a delightful crispy texture on the outside while being wonderfully fluffy on the inside. This easy recipe is not only a fantastic solution to prevent food waste but also makes for a quick lunch or a delectable side dish for any meal. Each bite bursts with savory notes from cheese and scallions, making them irresistible to anyone who loves homemade goodness. Are you ready to elevate your leftovers into something spectacular? Let’s dive in!

Why are mashed potato pancakes a must-try?

Crispy Texture: The golden, crunchy exterior gives way to a fluffy interior, offering a satisfying bite.
Zero Waste: Transform your leftovers into a stunning dish that eliminates food waste.
Quick & Easy: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Customizable Flavor: Add your choice of herbs or substitute cheeses like feta for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or as a hearty side dish, everyone will love these pancakes!
Serve them with a dollop of sour cream and pair them with a fresh side salad for an easy meal.

Mashed Potato Pancakes Ingredients

Transform your leftovers into a delicious feast with these key components!

For the Pancake Mixture
• Leftover Mashed Potatoes – Provides the base flavor and texture; ensure they are well-seasoned for the best taste.
• Grated Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness and flavor; mozzarella can be a tasty substitute.
• Scallions (3, chopped) – Contributes a mild onion flavor; both the green and white parts add depth.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (¼ cup) – Adds freshness and color; feel free to swap with chives or thyme for variations.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent; consider a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
• Onion Powder (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the savory profile of the pancakes; garlic powder serves as a nice alternative.
• Cayenne Pepper (Pinch) – Provides a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder flavor, or swap for paprika.

For the Binding and Coating
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup, spooned and leveled) – Helps with structure; use rice flour or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (¾ cup, for coating) – Guarantees a crispy exterior; toasted regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can work well too.

For Frying and Serving
• Avocado Oil – Used for frying, offering a neutral flavor; vegetable oil or olive oil can be substituted if needed.
• Sour Cream (for serving) – Enhances flavor with its creaminess; replace it with yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a different touch.

With these ingredients, your Mashed Potato Pancakes will shine, ensuring a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also rich in flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mashed Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, parsley, large egg, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Add the all-purpose flour, stirring gently until just combined. This will create a flavorful base for your Mashed Potato Pancakes that is ready to be shaped.

Step 2: Shape and Chill the Patties
Using about ¼ cup of the mixture for each pancake, shape them into thick patties. Press them gently to flatten to about ½ inch thick, then coat each side in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior. If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate the patties for 20-30 minutes to make shaping easier and improve the texture.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat a generous amount of avocado oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This should take about 2–3 minutes. Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry the pancakes properly, creating a golden-brown crust. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and affect the frying process.

Step 4: Fry the Pancakes
Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, ensuring each one has enough space to cook evenly. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese melts inside. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size of your pancakes to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once all your Mashed Potato Pancakes are beautifully golden and crispy, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of scallions or chives. Enjoy this deliciously innovative way to use your leftovers!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the leftover mashed potatoes, cheese, scallions, parsley, egg, onion powder, cayenne, and flour as instructed, then cover and refrigerate. The formed patties can also be frozen for an even longer prep ahead option, allowing you to store them for up to 3 months. For maximum freshness, chill the patties in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before frying so they hold together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, fry them straight from the refrigerator or thawed, ensuring they’re just as delicious as freshly made!

Mashed Potato Pancakes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these delightful pancakes by exploring some tasty variations and substitutions that cater to your preferences!

Cheese Swap: Replace cheddar with feta or blue cheese for a tangy twist. Each bite brings a burst of unexpected flavor.
Bacon Boost: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the mixture for a savory touch. This will elevate the flavor profile and add a bit of crunch!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, oregano, or thyme, enhancing the pancakes with aromatic notes. A simple herb swap can completely change the dish!
Gluten-Free: Use rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. You can also try gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.
Vegan Twist: For a plant-based approach, use a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce instead of a large egg. You’ll still achieve a lovely binding effect!
Spice it Up: Increase the heat with a dash of chili powder or spicy paprika instead of cayenne pepper for a kick. Your taste buds will thank you!
Texture Variation: Instead of panko, try crushed cornflakes for a distinctive crunch. The texture difference adds a fun flair while maintaining that crispy exterior.
Herbed Sour Cream: Top your pancakes with a herbed sour cream. Mix in some fresh herbs or garlic for an extra layer of flavor that complements the pancakes beautifully.

For more unique and delicious recipes, consider trying these creations too:

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes can be a delightful breakfast option.
Check out these flavorful Cottage Cheese Pancakes for a delightful twist on pancakes.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Sourdough Discard Pancakes for a sustainable and tasty treat!

Expert Tips for Mashed Potato Pancakes

• Season Well: Ensure your leftover mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before mixing. Underseasoned pancakes may lack flavor, so taste first!

• Chill the Mixture: If your pancake mixture feels sticky, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes. This makes shaping and frying easier and ensures perfect mashed potato pancakes.

• Fry in Batches: To achieve a golden crust, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry in batches, allowing each pancake enough room to cook evenly.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Pancake size matters! Thicker patties will require a longer frying time; monitor them for that golden brown perfection.

• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap cheeses or switch herbs; the possibilities are endless for customizing your mashed potato pancakes!

How to Store and Freeze Mashed Potato Pancakes

Fridge: Store cooked mashed potato pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, allowing for quick and easy meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat frozen pancakes directly from the freezer in an air fryer or skillet for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy a delicious bite of your Mashed Potato Pancakes any day!

Room Temperature: If serving immediately, pancakes can safely sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before they need to be refrigerated.

What to Serve with Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes?

There’s nothing quite like a plate of crispy goodness that elevates your meal, inviting warmth and connection around the table.

Simple Green Salad: Bright and refreshing, a salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pancakes, balancing flavors perfectly.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw with its tangy dressing contrasts beautifully against the crispy texture, making every bite a delightful adventure.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection complement the hearty pancakes with their earthy flavors, adding vibrant colors to your plate.
Garlic Butter Mushrooms: The savory richness of sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter pairs flawlessly, adding an umami punch to your dining experience.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: This cool, creamy soup provides a refreshing lift that contrasts nicely with warm, crispy pancakes, making for a unique pairing.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: A luscious dip with herbs and yogurt enhances the pancakes, offering a burst of fresh flavor with every dip.
Sparkling Lemonade: The fizz and citrus notes of sparkling lemonade cleanse the palate, ensuring you enjoy the flavors of each dish distinctly.
Apple Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of warm apple pie. Its comforting spices echo the savory pancakes while offering a delightful contrast.

Mashed Potato Pancakes Recipe FAQs

How do I know which leftover mashed potatoes to use?
Absolutely! Make sure your leftover mashed potatoes are well-seasoned and free of dark spots. If they smell fresh and taste good, they’re perfect for this recipe! However, if you’ve added any funky ingredients that might spoil quickly, it’s better to avoid those.

How should I store my cooked mashed potato pancakes?
You can keep your pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days! Just make sure they cool down completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. If you have extra pancakes, they’ll still taste delightful for your next meal!

Can I freeze mashed potato pancakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay your pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from frozen for about 5-7 minutes in an air fryer or skillet until they are heated through and crispy.

What if my pancakes fall apart during cooking?
If your pancakes are crumbling, don’t worry! You can simply add a bit more flour to the mixture or chill it for about 20-30 minutes to make shaping easier. This helps the pancakes hold together better while cooking. Frying them in enough hot oil also creates a solid crust that keeps everything intact.

Can these pancakes be modified for dietary restrictions?
Very much! For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free blend, and make sure to use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Additionally, you can replace the egg with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option. With all these adjustments, you’ll have delicious Mashed Potato Pancakes that everyone can enjoy!