Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes

Featured in: Bright Cozy Dinners

These garlic mashed potato cakes blend cold mashed potatoes with minced garlic, green onions, and cheddar cheese, formed into patties and pan-fried until golden and crispy. The mix includes sour cream, egg, and a touch of flour for binding. They deliver a delightful crispy exterior and creamy interior, perfect for using leftovers and enhancing meals with savory flavor.

Serve hot with sour cream or a fresh salad to complement the rich, comforting taste of these easy-to-make cakes.

Updated on Mon, 08 Dec 2025 21:39:03 GMT
Golden-brown Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes, crispy edges, ready for a satisfying, savory bite. Save
Golden-brown Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes, crispy edges, ready for a satisfying, savory bite. | citrusfold.com

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these easy garlic mashed potato cakes are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer.

Golden-brown Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes, crispy edges, ready for a satisfying, savory bite. Save
Golden-brown Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes, crispy edges, ready for a satisfying, savory bite. | citrusfold.com

These potato cakes blend savory garlic and sharp cheddar cheese with fresh green onions, creating a comforting bite that’s simple yet satisfying. Their ease and speed make them a reliable choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, minced garlic, green onions, cheddar cheese, egg, sour cream, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.
2.
With floured hands, divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1/2-inch thick. Lightly dust each cake with extra flour.
3.
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4.
Add the potato cakes in batches and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
5.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra green onions or sour cream.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Be sure to use cold, leftover mashed potatoes as they hold their shape better when forming the cakes. Dusting the hands and cakes with flour prevents sticking and helps achieve a crisp finish. Cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan, ensuring even browning.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Add crumbled cooked bacon or chopped herbs for extra flavor. Swap cheddar for your favorite cheese, or omit for dairy-free adaptations. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a little heat.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these potato cakes warm with applesauce, sour cream, or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate that delights every palate.

A stack of freshly fried Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes with melted cheese and fresh green onion garnish. Save
A stack of freshly fried Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes with melted cheese and fresh green onion garnish. | citrusfold.com

Enjoy these simple garlic mashed potato cakes as a comforting, satisfying dish that elevates your leftover mashed potatoes into something special. Perfect for sharing or serving alongside your favorite meals.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, cook and mash fresh potatoes first, then cool them before mixing to achieve the right texture for forming cakes.

What can I add to boost flavor?

Enhance with crumbled bacon, chopped herbs like parsley or chives, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

How do I get crispy cakes without burning?

Use moderate heat and a combination of butter and oil for even browning, turning cakes carefully after 3-4 minutes per side.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, substitute cheddar and sour cream with plant-based alternatives or omit cheese for a lighter version.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Refrigerate cooled cakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Simple Garlic Mashed Potato Cakes

Crispy, creamy mashed potato cakes with garlic, cheddar, and green onions for a tasty side or snack.

Prep time
15 minutes
Time to cook
15 minutes
Total duration
30 minutes
Provided by Lena Brookfield

Recipe group Bright Cozy Dinners

Skill level Easy

Cuisine type American

Makes 4 Serving count

Diet details Meat-free

Ingredient list

Leftovers

01 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes

Vegetables & Aromatics

01 2 cloves garlic, minced
02 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Dairy

01 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
02 1 large egg
03 2 tablespoons sour cream

Dry Ingredients

01 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
02 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make It

Step 01

Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, minced garlic, green onions, cheddar cheese, egg, sour cream, flour, salt, and black pepper until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.

Step 02

Shape cakes: With floured hands, divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Lightly dust each patty with extra flour.

Step 03

Heat fat: Melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 04

Cook cakes: Place potato cakes in batches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.

Step 05

Drain and serve: Transfer cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra green onions or sour cream.

What You Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy details

Always check ingredients for allergens. When unsure, talk to your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy products including cheese, sour cream, and butter.
  • Contains egg.
  • Contains gluten from all-purpose flour.

Nutrition per serving

Provided for informational purposes. Doesn't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Calories count: 210
  • Fat content: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Proteins: 7 g