Easy Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

If you ever find yourself with leftover mashed potatoes and craving something crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, then these Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes are exactly what you need. This recipe transforms simple mashed potatoes into golden-brown, savory cakes filled with sharp cheddar and crispy bacon, making for a delicious meal or snack. It’s an outstanding way to avoid food waste while turning leftovers into something absolutely crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless comfort food: Takes leftover mashed potatoes and quickly turns them into a restaurant-worthy dish.
• Crispy on the outside, soft inside: Each patty cake boasts a wonderful contrast of textures that’s simply irresistible.
• Incredibly flavorful: The combo of smoky bacon and sharp cheddar adds a punch of taste in every bite.
• Flexible and customizable: Easy to tweak by adding herbs, spices, or other mix-ins to suit your cravings.
• Perfect for quick meals: Ready in under 30 minutes, excellent for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to form the perfect patty cakes. Each one plays a vital role in flavor, texture, or color, resulting in a balanced and delicious dish.

• Leftover mashed potatoes: The main base, providing creaminess and body to the cakes.
• Cooked bacon: Adds a smoky crunch and richness that elevates the flavor profile.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly inside, giving cheesy pockets throughout.
• Green onions: Offers a mild onion bite and freshness.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patty cakes together during cooking.
• Flour or breadcrumbs: Helps to create a crisp outer crust when fried.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
• Oil or butter: Used for frying, ensuring golden and crispy results.

Variations for Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Feel free to get creative with your patty cakes! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so you can cater to dietary restrictions, available ingredients, or just add your personal twist for extra flavor.

• Herb-infused: Mix in fresh parsley, chives, or thyme for a fragrant boost.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to spice things up.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoky paprika for a similar depth.
• Dairy-free option: Use vegan cheese and a flax egg binder to keep it crispy and tasty.
• Extra cheesy: Stir in multiple cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for gooey goodness.

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by chopping cooked bacon into small bits and shredding your sharp cheddar cheese. Slice green onions finely. Make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and free of large lumps for easy mixing.

Step 2: Combine the mixture

In a large bowl, gently fold together the mashed potatoes, bacon, cheddar, green onions, egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Gradually add flour or breadcrumbs until the mixture is firm enough to hold its shape when formed into patties.

Step 3: Shape the patty cakes

Using your hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized rounds, about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and develop a crunchy exterior.

Step 4: Cook to crispy perfection

Heat oil or butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patty cakes in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp. Flip gently to avoid breaking.

Step 5: Drain and serve

Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

• Use cold mashed potatoes: Day-old mashed potatoes work best as they hold together better.
• Don’t overload with fillers: Add just enough flour or breadcrumbs to bind but keep the cakes tender.
• Medium heat is key: Cooking on medium prevents burning while ensuring thorough crisping.
• Press firmly when shaping: This helps the cakes hold together and crisp evenly during frying.
• Rest before serving: Let the patty cakes sit for a minute after frying to maintain their crisp crust.

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, or a drizzle of spicy aioli for a flavorful finishing touch that complements the richness of the patty cakes.

Side Dishes

Pair these cakes with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens to balance the meal. They also make a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats or eggs for breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve stacked with layers of avocado and tomato for a quick sandwich, or crumble on top of soups for added texture and flavor—these patty cakes shine in so many formats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover patty cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or meals later in the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen patty cakes in a hot skillet or oven to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, you can use freshly made mashed potatoes, but chilling them first will help the patties hold together better during cooking.

How can I make these patties gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular flour or breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free panko for the binder.

Is it necessary to use bacon, or can I omit it?

Bacon adds excellent flavor and texture, but you can omit it for a vegetarian version or replace it with smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms for a smoky taste.

What’s the best cheese to use besides cheddar?

Sharp cheddar works wonderfully, but you can also try gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the patty cakes at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

These Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes are truly a game changer when it comes to using up leftovers and whipping up something delicious in a flash. Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen for quick meals or snacks. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort dish!

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