Mashed Potato Patties are a fun twist on classic mashed potatoes! They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them super tasty. Plus, you can add cheese, herbs, or even veggies for extra flavor!
These patties are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. I love eating them with a dollop of sour cream or ketchup on the side. Who knew leftovers could be this yummy? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Leftover cooled mashed potatoes work best since they hold their shape better. If you don’t have left overs, you can quickly boil and mash fresh potatoes. Use any variety—Russets or Yukon Golds are great options.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to experiment! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even feta can give these patties a unique flavor. Even a blend of cheeses can be fun!
Green Onions: They add a lovely fresh taste. If you don’t have green onions, chopped chives or even shallots work well. You could skip them entirely if you prefer a more straightforward flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the patties. If you’re avoiding gluten, try using almond flour or gluten-free flour blends. They work surprisingly well!
How Do I Get My Patties Crispy on the Outside?
To achieve those perfectly crispy potato patties, follow these tips:
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are cool. This helps the patties hold together better when frying.
- Dusting your hands with flour while shaping helps prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Give each patty enough space to get nice and golden.
- Use medium heat; too high might burn the outside while leaving the inside cold.
With these tips, you’ll create deliciously crispy Mashed Potato Patties every time! Enjoy them hot for the best texture!

How to Make Mashed Potato Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cooled or leftover)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp oil (for frying)
- Optional: sour cream or yogurt for drizzling or dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, so plan for around 30-35 minutes total. You’ll spend a little time mixing up the ingredients, shaping the patties, and then frying them to a golden crispy perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a sturdy fork or a spatula to mix everything together until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
2. Shaping the Patties:
Lightly dust your hands and your working surface with flour to prevent sticking. Take about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and shape it into a round patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Place it on your prepared surface. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up, forming patties that are evenly sized.
3. Frying the Patties:
In a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat until it’s nice and hot. Carefully add the patties into the pan in a single layer without crowding them. Depending on the size of your pan, you may need to fry in batches.
4. Cooking to Perfection:
Fry the patties for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when flipping them to keep their shape intact!
5. Draining the Oil:
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and not greasy.
6. Serving the Patties:
Serve the patties warm. Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a fresh touch, and feel free to drizzle some sour cream or yogurt on top, or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your delicious, crispy, and creamy Mashed Potato Patties!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, leftover cooled mashed potatoes work best because they hold their shape better when frying. Just ensure they’re seasoned to your taste before using them.
What Oil Should I Use for Frying?
Any neutral oil with a high smoke point works well, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil. Olive oil is also an option, but it may impart a stronger flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Patties?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp again.
Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. The patties may be slightly different in texture but will still taste great!