Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes

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If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes with a crispy exterior, then look no further. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes are perfectly golden and delicious, making them an excellent side dish or even a main attraction for your next meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into what makes these cakes so irresistible.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something truly magical about the combination of mashed potatoes and cheese, especially when you can shape them into golden cakes with a crispy outside and a soft, cheesy inside. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. They can serve as a delectable side dish during family dinners, a fantastic option for brunch, or even as a quick snack to satisfy those afternoon cravings. Plus, they are super simple to make and only require a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make your very own Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 large potatoes
• 1 egg
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons green onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

These ingredients blend perfectly to create the ideal cheesy mash, enhanced by the savory notes of garlic and green onions. Ready to get cooking? Let’s go!

How To Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling the 3 large potatoes. Cut them into chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Boil the potato chunks in a large pot of salted water until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them sit for a couple of minutes to release steam.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, add the drained potatoes and mash them using a potato masher or fork until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps left behind!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the mashed potatoes, add the 1 egg, ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 crushed cloves of garlic, ¾ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, 3 tablespoons of chopped green onion, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Mix all the ingredients until well combined, and you have a thick, cheesy potato mixture.

Step 4: Shape the Cakes

Using your hands, take a portion of the potato mixture and shape it into a round cake about ½ inch thick. Continue shaping the rest of the mixture until you have a tray full of potato cakes. This recipe should yield around 8 to 10 cakes, depending on their size.

Step 5: Cook the Cakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, carefully place the potato cakes in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes warm, garnished with extra green onions or a sprinkle of cheese on top. These cakes can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of dips and sauces!

Expert Tips

• Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho for the best texture.
• Make sure your mash is well-mixed to avoid lumps in your cakes.
• If you want a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Variations and Customizations

• For a different cheese flavor, try using gouda or mozzarella instead of cheddar.
• Incorporate herbs like parsley or chives for an added burst of freshness.
• Make these cakes even heartier by adding cooked bacon bits or diced ham.
• Swap out the green onions for finely chopped bell peppers for a sweet twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes, you can easily store any leftovers. Place the cooled cakes in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crispy again.

FAQ

Can I freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover cakes. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes?

These cakes pair wonderfully with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or any favorite dipping sauce. You could also serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time, shape the cakes, and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. This is a great time-saver when you’re entertaining.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.

Conclusion

Creating these Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes is not just cooking; it’s about bringing comfort and joy to your table. With their irresistible cheesy goodness and crispy texture, they can easily become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and toppings, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for your secret recipe! Whether served as a side dish or the star of the meal, these potato cakes are guaranteed to leave a delightful impression on all who try them. Happy cooking!

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