Potato Patties

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These Potato Patties are the perfect solution for transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious snack or side dish. Golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside, they make a versatile addition to any meal.

Whether you serve them alongside breakfast eggs or as a quick side for dinner, these patties are sure to be a hit. The simple ingredients and fast preparation make them ideal for busy weeknights, and their rich, comforting flavor ensures they’ll disappear in no time!

Full Recipe:

2 cups cold, leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg
⅓ cup grated yellow onion
½ cup all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon Kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cup canola oil for frying

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cold mashed potatoes and the egg until evenly combined.
Add the grated onion, flour, salt, and pepper, and gently stir with a fork until everything is well incorporated.
Heat canola oil in a large frying pan over medium heat (about 350°F).
Scoop ½ cup of the potato mixture and carefully place it into the hot oil, forming it into a patty shape with a spatula.
Fry each patty for about 3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Transfer the cooked patties to a cooling rack placed over paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories: 265 kcal | Servings: 8

Recipe Highlights

These Potato Patties (also called Fried Potato Cakes) are a great way to give a new life to leftover mashed potatoes. With just a few ingredients, you can transform basic mashed potatoes into a crispy and savory dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish for dinner. The crispy exterior and the creamy inside create an irresistible contrast, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Versatility

This recipe is not only quick and easy but highly versatile. It can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas:

As a breakfast option: Pair the patties with a fried or poached egg for a hearty morning meal.
For brunch: Serve them with a fresh salad or sautéed greens for a light and tasty mid-morning meal.
As a snack or appetizer: Top with sour cream, chives, or bacon for an extra burst of flavor, turning the patties into an irresistible snack for gatherings.
Side dish: These patties pair well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, adding texture and flavor to any main course.

Customization Options

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s open to customization based on what you have available:

Add cheese: Mix in some shredded cheddar or parmesan to the potato mixture for a cheesy variation.
Herbs and spices: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary. For a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Vegetables: You can fold in finely chopped vegetables like spinach or grated carrots for added nutrition and color.

Cooking Tips

Cold Potatoes Work Best: Using cold leftover mashed potatoes helps the patties hold their shape better when frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the patties in batches to ensure they cook evenly and turn golden brown without getting soggy.
Control the Heat: Fry over medium heat and avoid turning the heat up too high, as this may cause the outside to brown too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
Freezing: These patties freeze very well. To store, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in a pan or oven.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these potato patties contains around 265 calories, which includes carbohydrates from the potatoes and flour, fats from the oil used for frying, and a small amount of protein from the egg and potatoes. They make a satisfying option that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal.

Topping Ideas

You can elevate these potato patties with various toppings, similar to what you might add to a loaded baked potato:

Sour Cream for a creamy contrast
Bacon Crumbles for added savory flavor
Shredded Cheddar or your favorite cheese
Chopped Chives or Green Onions for a fresh garnish

Pairing Suggestions

These crispy patties are versatile and pair beautifully with different mains and sides:

Proteins: Serve alongside grilled steak, roast chicken, or pan-fried fish.
Sauces: Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch, aioli, or even a simple homemade tomato salsa.
Salads: A side of green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the patties.

Fun Fact

The concept of fried potato patties has been around for centuries and can be found in many cultures, from Irish boxty to Eastern European potato latkes. This recipe is a simple American take, focusing on convenience and the classic flavors of mashed potatoes.

History and Cultural Significance of Potato Patties

Potato Patties have been enjoyed worldwide in various forms for centuries. Known by different names such as boxty in Ireland, latkes in Jewish cuisine, and kartoffelpuffer in Germany, the concept of frying mashed or grated potatoes is deeply rooted in many culinary traditions.

Irish Boxty: In Ireland, boxty is a well-known dish made from a mixture of raw and mashed potatoes, often served with bacon or sausages.
Latkes: Jewish communities enjoy potato latkes during Hanukkah, symbolizing the miracle of oil. Latkes are often served with sour cream or applesauce.
German Kartoffelpuffer: In Germany, potato pancakes (kartoffelpuffer) are a popular street food, typically served with a savory or sweet side like apple sauce or sour cream.

In the U.S., potato patties are a popular way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into something delicious and crispy, often served as a side dish or snack.

Health Benefits of Potatoes

While potatoes sometimes get a bad rap, they actually provide several health benefits:

Rich in Nutrients: Potatoes are a good source of vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, as well as important minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
High in Fiber: If you leave the skin on when making mashed potatoes, you’ll get a boost of fiber, which helps with digestion.
Gluten-Free: Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a good option for those with gluten sensitivities (just ensure that your flour is gluten-free, if needed).

Recipe Variations

While the classic Potato Patties recipe calls for mashed potatoes, onions, and flour, there are several ways to experiment with the base recipe. Here are a few ideas:

1. Cheesy Potato Patties

Add shredded cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella to the potato mixture for a cheesy twist.
This variation adds creaminess and depth, making the patties even more indulgent.

2. Spicy Potato Patties

Mix in chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
Serve with a cooling yogurt or sour cream dip to balance the heat.

3. Herb-Infused Potato Patties

Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to the mashed potato mix for extra freshness.
This version is perfect as a side dish to lighter meals like grilled fish or roasted vegetables.

4. Sweet Potato Patties

Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, giving the dish a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
Sweet potato patties can be paired with toppings like crumbled feta cheese or a drizzle of maple syrup.

5. Loaded Potato Patties

Take inspiration from loaded baked potatoes by adding crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream on top of the patties.
This is a great option for brunch or even as a game-day snack.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Potato Patties can be served in many ways depending on the occasion:

1. Breakfast or Brunch:

Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, avocado slices, or bacon for a hearty breakfast.
They’re also great with a poached egg on top, allowing the runny yolk to mingle with the crispy patties.

2. Appetizer:

Serve mini potato patties as an appetizer at parties with dipping sauces like chipotle mayo, sour cream, or a spicy ketchup.

3. Main Course:

Pair them with grilled meats or fish. Potato patties go particularly well with BBQ dishes or roasted chicken.
For a vegetarian option, serve them with a green salad, sautéed vegetables, or roasted peppers.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be easily adapted for different dietary preferences and restrictions:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour to make these patties gluten-free.
Vegan: For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use vegan butter and plant-based milk if you’re making the mashed potatoes from scratch.
Lower Fat: You can bake the patties instead of frying them to reduce the oil content. Simply place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Ingredient Spotlight: Potatoes

Russet potatoes are used in this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps to create a creamy mashed potato base perfect for frying. Here are a few interesting facts about potatoes:

Origins: Potatoes were first cultivated in the Andes Mountains of South America over 7,000 years ago. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century and quickly became a dietary staple.
Varieties: There are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes, ranging in color from white to yellow to purple. Each variety has a slightly different flavor and texture.
Storage Tip: To keep potatoes fresh for longer, store them in a cool, dark place. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can alter their texture and taste.

Freezing and Storing Leftover Potato Patties

If you have leftover patties or want to make a larger batch for later:

Freezing: Allow the patties to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To prevent freezer burn, be sure to remove excess air from the bag.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat the frozen patties in a frying pan over medium heat, in the oven, or even in the air fryer until warmed through and crispy again.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to repurpose leftovers or create a quick and delicious dish from scratch, Potato Patties are an easy and satisfying option. Their versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes, making them perfect for a variety of meals—from breakfast to dinner. The crispy outside and soft inside offer the perfect balance of texture, and their rich potato flavor is complemented by endless topping and pairing possibilities.