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Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food loved by many. But what if you could take those leftover mashed potatoes and transform them into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece? Enter Crispy Mashed Potato Patties, a versatile and irresistible recipe that turns simple ingredients into a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish. Perfectly golden on the outside and soft on the inside, these patties are a game-changer for potato lovers everywhere.

Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or simply want to try something new, these patties are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Mashed Potato Patties

Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like bacon, green onions, or herbs to make them your own.
Versatile: Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or even a standalone snack.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make these patties so delightful:

Mashed Potatoes

The star of the show! Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience, but make sure they are cool and firm for easy shaping.

Tip: If your mashed potatoes are too soft, mix in a little extra flour or breadcrumbs to firm up the texture.

Cheeses

Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a gooey, melty center that takes these patties to the next level.

Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the flavor with a nutty, salty kick.

Egg

Acts as a binder to hold the patties together during frying.

Flour and Breadcrumbs

These create a crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

Pro Tip: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy texture.

Butter or Olive Oil

Provides the perfect medium for frying, adding a rich flavor and golden-brown finish.

Fresh Chives

A sprinkle of chopped chives not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor with a subtle oniony note.

Step-by-Step Directions: Crafting Perfect Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the potato mixture into equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into a flat, round patty. Aim for a uniform size to ensure even cooking.

Chef’s Tip: Lightly flour your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking.

Step 3: Coat the Patties

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one for all-purpose flour, one for beaten egg, and one for breadcrumbs. Lightly coat each patty in flour, dip it into the egg, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.

Pro Tip: Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the patties to ensure they adhere well.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat unsalted butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the patties in the skillet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Garnish with chopped fresh chives and serve hot with your favorite gravy, sour cream, or dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy mashed potato patties are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:

As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon for a hearty meal.

As an Appetizer: Offer them with a selection of dips like ranch, spicy aioli, or honey mustard for a crowd-pleasing starter.
As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own for a quick and satisfying treat.

Customization Ideas: Make Them Your Own

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Add Protein

Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

2. Boost the Veggies

Incorporate finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or shredded carrots into the potato mixture for a nutrient boost.

3. Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

4. Try Different Cheeses

Swap mozzarella for cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina to experiment with different flavor profiles.

5. Go Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, place the patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Reheating

Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispy texture. Alternatively, use an air fryer or oven set at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Perfect Use for Leftovers: Got extra mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner? This recipe gives them a whole new life.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these crispy, cheesy patties.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, staple ingredients, this recipe is as economical as it is delicious.
Quick to Make: With minimal prep and cooking time, these patties are perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work well in this recipe and add a natural sweetness to the patties.

2. What’s the Best Way to Prevent the Patties from Falling Apart?

Ensure the mashed potatoes are cool and firm, and don’t skip the egg—it acts as a crucial binder.

3. Can I Bake These Patties Instead of Frying?

Yes! Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. What Can I Serve with These Patties?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, sautéed greens, or a hearty soup like tomato bisque or creamy mushroom.

Final Thoughts

Crispy mashed potato patties are proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re repurposing leftovers or whipping up a batch from scratch, these golden beauties are sure to steal the show at your table.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those potatoes, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Serve them at your next family dinner, game day gathering, or brunch—and watch them disappear in no time!

Crispy Mashed Potato Patties: A Delightful Twist on Comfort Food