Introduction

Leftover mashed potato cheese bacon cakes are a delightful way to transform your uneaten mashed potatoes into a scrumptious dish. These golden-brown cakes combine the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the savory flavors of cheese and crispy bacon, making them a perfect option for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack. This recipe not only minimizes food waste but also creates a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Leftover mashed potatoes – 2 cups
– Cooked bacon, chopped – 1 cup
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) – 1 cup
– Green onions, sliced – ¼ cup
– Egg – 1 large
– All-purpose flour – ½ cup
– Salt – ½ teaspoon
– Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
– Olive oil or butter for frying – as needed

Prep Time

The preparation for leftover mashed potato cheese bacon cakes is relatively quick, taking about 15 minutes. This allows you to whip up these delicious cakes in no time, making it an ideal option for those busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is approximately 20 minutes, allowing for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside creamy. The total time from preparation through cooking is about 35 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 to 8 cakes, depending on the size of your portions, making it a perfect serving for a small gathering or a family meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients

Ensure you have leftover mashed potatoes at room temperature. Gather additional ingredients including cheese, cooked bacon, and green onions to mix into the potatoes.

Step 2: Mixing Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, chopped cooked bacon, and finely sliced green onions. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 3: Shaping the Cakes

Take a portion of the mixture and form it into a patty shape, about 1 inch thick. Continue this process until all the mixture is shaped into cakes.

Step 4: Dredging the Cakes

Coat each potato cake lightly in flour on both sides. This will help create a crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 5: Cooking the Cakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of oil. Place the potato cakes in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serving the Cakes

Once the cakes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your choice of condiments or toppings.

Notes

Note 1: Bacon Options

You can use any cooked bacon, including diced ham or turkey bacon, for a lighter option.

Note 2: Cheese Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan based on your preference.

Note 3: Storage

Leftover potato cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

These potato cakes are great as a snack, side dish, or even a breakfast option topped with a poached egg.

Cook techniques

Using Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Utilize leftover mashed potatoes as the base for creating delicious cakes. The creamy texture serves as a perfect binding agent, allowing for easy shaping and frying.

Mixing Ingredients

Combine the mashed potatoes with cheese and bacon thoroughly for even distribution of flavors. Ensure that all ingredients are well-mixed to achieve consistent taste in every bite.

Shaping the Cakes

Form the mixture into small, even patties. Use your hands to shape them, ensuring they are compact enough to hold together during cooking.

Pan-Frying

Fry the cakes in a skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown on both sides. This technique adds a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

These cakes can be served as appetizers or as a side dish. They pair well with sour cream, chives, or any preferred dipping sauce for added flavor.

FAQ

Can I use other ingredients with the mashed potatoes?

Yes, feel free to customize the recipe by adding other ingredients like herbs, vegetables, or different types of cheese.

How do I know when the cakes are done frying?

The cakes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. It’s best to check by flipping them and inspecting their color.

Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can prepare the mixture and shape the cakes ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them.

What can I serve with the leftover mashed potato cakes?

These cakes pair well with a variety of dips and sauces such as sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the cakes in the oven for a healthier option. Bake at a high temperature until they are golden and crisp.

Conclusion

These leftover mashed potato cheese bacon cakes are a delicious way to transform your extra mashed potatoes into a delectable dish. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese makes for a satisfying meal or snack. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer a wonderful opportunity to reduce food waste while tantalizing your taste buds. Enjoy these cakes as a side dish or even a main course with your favorite accompaniments.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Loaded Potato Skins

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into loaded potato skins by filling halved baked potatoes with the mash, topping with cheese, bacon, and green onions, then baking until golden and crispy.

Mashed Potato Soup

Create a comforting soup by blending leftover mashed potatoes with broth and cream, then adding sautéed onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables for added flavor and texture.

Shepherd’s Pie

Layer leftover mashed potatoes on top of a mixture of ground meat and vegetables to make a hearty shepherd’s pie, baking until bubbly and golden brown.

Potato Pancakes

Mix leftover mashed potatoes with flour and egg to form a batter, then pan-fry to create golden and crispy potato pancakes, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole

Combine leftover mashed potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and herbs, then bake for a creamy cheesy casserole that’s perfect as a side dish for any meal.