Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potato Patties are the perfect comfort food, offering all the richness and flavor of mashed potatoes in a crispy, golden patty form. These savory little bites are packed with creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and fragrant garlic, making them a delicious side dish or even a snack on their own. Whether you have leftover mashed potatoes or are starting from scratch, these patties are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. They’re a great way to elevate a simple side dish into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
For the Patties:
•3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made mashed potatoes)
•1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
•1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
•1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
•2 large eggs
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper
•1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
•2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce (optional):
•2 tablespoons unsalted butter
•1 tablespoon olive oil
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
•Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, skip to the next step. If you’re starting fresh, make a batch of mashed potatoes. For the creamiest mashed potatoes, use russet potatoes, and boil them until tender. Once mashed, let them cool slightly before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
1.Combine the mashed potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and fresh parsley (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
2.Add the eggs and breadcrumbs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix them in. Then, add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until the mixture becomes thick enough to hold its shape. If the mixture feels too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs until it’s firm but still moist.
3.Form the patties: Take small portions of the mashed potato mixture and form them into small patties (about 2 to 3 inches in diameter). You should be able to make about 8-10 patties, depending on the size.
Step 3: Coat the Patties
1.Coat the patties in breadcrumbs: Place some breadcrumbs on a plate and gently coat each patty on both sides, pressing slightly to ensure they are evenly coated. This step will help create a crispy exterior when frying.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
1.Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
2.Fry the patties: Carefully place the potato patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully using a spatula to avoid breaking them.
3.Drain: Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce (optional)
1.Prepare the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
2.Finish the sauce: Stir in the fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the garlic butter over the hot, crispy patties before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your cheesy garlic mashed potato patties warm, either with the optional garlic butter sauce or as they are. These patties make an excellent side dish to any meal or a fun appetizer to share with friends and family.
Variations
1.Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda to give the patties a unique flavor. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a more complex taste.
2.Herb Variations: If you prefer different herbs, you can use chives, thyme, or rosemary in place of parsley for a fresh twist.
3.Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mashed potato mixture for a spicy kick.
4.Bacon Lovers: Chop up some cooked bacon and mix it into the mashed potato mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.
5.Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flax meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to make these patties vegan-friendly.
Tips
1.Use Room Temperature Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes are easier to work with, so let them cool down to room temperature before mixing them into the patties. This will help them hold their shape better.
2.Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to stick together or cook unevenly.
3.Make Ahead: You can make the patties ahead of time. Once formed, place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Fry them when ready to serve.
4.Use Non-Stick Cookware: For easy flipping and crisping, use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet to fry the patties.
5.Test for Crispiness: If you prefer extra crispy patties, increase the heat slightly when frying, but be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potato Patties are an irresistible combination of creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and garlic, all wrapped up in a crispy golden crust. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover mashed potatoes or just craving a comfort food upgrade, these patties are sure to satisfy. The cheesy interior is perfectly complemented by the crispy exterior, and the optional garlic butter sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that takes these patties to the next level. Make them for a family dinner, party appetizer, or a savory snack, and watch them disappear quickly!
FAQs
1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh mashed potatoes yield the best texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure they are well-seasoned and have a creamy consistency before proceeding with the recipe.
2. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart when frying?
Ensure your mashed potatoes are not too wet. If they’re too loose, add more breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Chilling the patties before frying can also help them hold together better.
3. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. They also freeze well—place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from frozen when ready.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake these patties instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Can I add other ingredients to the patties?
Absolutely! You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, onions, or mushrooms to the mashed potato mixture for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them finely to ensure the patties hold together.
