Crispy Parmesan Potato Cakes (Printer-Friendly)
Crispy cakes with creamy potatoes, Parmesan, and herbs—perfect for transforming leftovers into a comforting side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Base
01 -
500 g cold leftover mashed potatoes
→ Binding and Flavor
02 -
80 g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
03 -
2 green onions, finely sliced
04 -
50 g all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
05 -
1 large egg
06 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
08 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
→ For Frying
09 -
3 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, grated Parmesan, green onions, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Stir gently until the mixture is cohesive but not overmixed. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when forming patties. If too wet, add an additional tablespoon of flour.
02 -
Scoop about 60 ml (1/4 cup) of the mixture and gently shape into round patties, approximately 1.5 cm thick. Press the sides for smoother edges and uniform size, ensuring even cooking. Wet your hands if the mixture is sticky.
03 -
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, swirling to evenly coat the base. The fat should shimmer but not smoke.
04 -
Place the potato cakes in the skillet, spacing them at least 2.5 cm apart. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the underside is golden and crisp. Flip once with a thin spatula and cook another 3–4 minutes until the second side is golden brown.
05 -
Transfer the fried cakes to a plate lined with paper towels. Let rest for 2 minutes to drain excess oil and allow the texture to set.
06 -
Serve warm with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley. Optionally accompany with sour cream or Greek yogurt and additional herbs.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Chill the patties before cooking if the mixture is soft for easier handling and better texture.
02 -
Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge up to 2 days; leftovers reheat well in the oven for extra crispiness.
03 -
Mixture accommodates additions such as cooked bacon, chopped herbs, or other cheeses—ensure ingredients are finely chopped and not too moist.
04 -
Freezes well raw or cooked; reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven.