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Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes

Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside — these Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are the ultimate way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a mouthwatering comfort dish. Packed with bacon, cheese, and herbs, these golden-brown potato cakes make the perfect appetizer, side dish, or even a quick lunch. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and impossible to resist!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar recommended
  • ½ cup flour
  • 6 strips bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 medium onion chopped (or ¼ cup green onion)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 4 tablespoons butter or margarine for frying

Instructions

Cook the Bacon:

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cool, crumble into small pieces and set aside.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

  • In the same skillet, remove excess bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.

Prepare the Potato Mixture:

  • In a large bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, basil, parsley, and beaten eggs. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to form patties — if it’s too soft, add a little more flour.

Form the Cakes:

  • Scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into 3-inch wide, ½-inch thick patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Fry the Potato Cakes:

  • Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potato cakes in batches and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve:

  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

  • Perfect Texture: Use cold mashed potatoes for the best structure — warm ones will be too soft.
  • Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can also try gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for variety.
  • Add-Ons: Mix in chopped scallions, diced ham, or even jalapeños for a flavor twist.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze cooked cakes for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick snack.