Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes
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When you make too much mashed potatoes, instead of letting those creamy leftovers go to waste, you can transform them into something new, exciting, and kid-friendly, Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes.
This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and a great way to stretch leftovers into another meal. Kids absolutely love these crispy little patties that are soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside.
Why Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
When you run a busy household or a daycare, you know how important it is to make meals stretch. Throwing away food feels wasteful, and it can really add up over time. By turning leftover mashed potatoes into crispy potato cakes, you give those leftovers new life.
Not only does this reduce food waste, but it also helps save money. A few scoops of potatoes can be transformed into a main dish or a hearty side. Add in a little cheese, egg, and maybe some leftover veggies or ham, and you’ve got a well-rounded dish kids will ask for again and again.
Mashed Potato Cakes Recipe
Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 egg
- ½ cup shredded cheese cheddar is always a hit, but mozzarella or parmesan work too
- ¼ cup flour or breadcrumbs
- Optional: diced leftover ham, turkey, chicken, or chopped cooked veggies (peas, carrots, broccoli)
- Oil or butter for frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, stir together mashed potatoes, egg, cheese, and flour until well combined. You want the mixture to hold together when shaped into patties.
- If you have leftover meat or vegetables, mix them in for added flavor and nutrition.
- Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture and flatten it into a small cake.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a thin layer of oil or butter. Fry the patties until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
Nutrition
Why Kids Love This Recipe
When cooking for little ones, the texture and presentation of food matter almost as much as the taste. Here’s why potato cakes are kid-approved:
- Crunchy on the outside, soft inside – The contrast makes them fun to eat.
- Easy finger food – Small patties are easy for toddlers and preschoolers to pick up.
- Dippable – Anything that comes with ketchup or ranch is usually a win.
- Familiar flavors – Potatoes and cheese are safe, comforting tastes that most kids already enjoy.
For picky eaters, these potato cakes can also be a sneaky way to introduce extra veggies. Finely chopped broccoli or carrots disappear easily into the mixture, giving kids an extra serving without complaints.
Tips for the Best Mashed Potato Cakes
- Use cold mashed potatoes – Freshly made mashed potatoes are too soft. Cold potatoes from the fridge work best.
- Don’t overmix – Just stir until combined. Overmixing can make the texture gummy.
- Add more flour if needed – If the mixture feels too wet, sprinkle in more flour or breadcrumbs until you can shape patties easily.
- Keep patties small – Bite-sized cakes cook more evenly and are perfect for little hands.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Potato Cakes – Add extra shredded cheese to make them extra gooey.
- Veggie-Loaded Cakes – Mix in leftover peas, corn, or finely chopped broccoli.
- Protein Boost – Stir in diced ham, turkey, or chicken for a heartier version.
- Herb and Garlic Potato Cakes – Add garlic powder, parsley, or green onions for grown-up flavor that kids might like too.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Cakes
Potato cakes are versatile and can fit into almost any meal plan. Here are some ideas:
- As a side dish with grilled chicken, turkey, or fish.
- As a snack with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or applesauce.
- For breakfast alongside scrambled eggs and fruit.
- As a main dish with a salad or roasted veggies on the side.
For daycare, they’re especially handy because you can make them in advance and reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick lunch option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: Lay cooked cakes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and keep up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to keep the crisp texture. Microwaving works too, but they’ll be softer.
Potato Recipes
For more potato inspiration, check these out:
- Sausage and Potato Empanadas Recipe for Kids
- Leftover Pork and Potato Soup Recipe
- Honey Roasted Carrots, Parsnips, and Potatoes
- How to Cook Potatoes for Beginners
Next time you’re staring at a container of cold mashed potatoes in the fridge, don’t think of them as leftovers. Think of them as the start of your next delicious meal.
