Description
Delicious and crispy leftover mashed potato pancakes made with feta cheese, scallions, and fresh parsley, pan-fried to golden perfection. A wonderful way to transform cold mashed potatoes into a savory breakfast or side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Pancakes
- 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes (already cooked and stored in the fridge)
- 3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 cup), plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 3 scallions, chopped (both white and green parts), plus more for garnish
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- Extra virgin olive oil, for pan frying
Instructions
- Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, crumbled feta cheese, all-purpose flour, chopped scallions, egg, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated into a uniform batter.
- Form the patties: Spread the plain breadcrumbs on a plate. Using a measuring cup (1/4 or 1/3 cup depending on your desired pancake size), scoop the potato mixture and form into a ball. Lightly flatten each ball to create a patty about 1/2-inch thick. Coat each patty evenly on both sides with the breadcrumbs and place them flat on a baking sheet. Repeat until all mixture is used.
- Fry the pancakes: Line a tray with paper towels and place near the stove to drain excess oil. Heat a large non-stick pan or skillet over medium-high heat and pour in enough olive oil to reach about 1/2-inch depth. Once the oil shimmers and is hot, add the patties in a single layer (fry in batches if necessary). Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until the pancakes are golden brown and crispy. Remove the pancakes and set them on the paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the fried mashed potato pancakes to a serving plate. Garnish with additional crumbled feta cheese and chopped scallions for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are cold and firm for best results as warm potatoes may yield loose batter.
- Adjust the breadcrumb amount based on how crispy you want the pancakes and to help the patties hold their shape.
- Use a non-stick pan and sufficient oil to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy exterior.
- The size of the pancakes can be customized by using different scoop sizes (1/4 vs 1/3 cup).
- Leftover mashed potato pancakes can be reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mashed potato pancakes, leftover mashed potatoes, feta cheese, scallions, potato fritters, easy breakfast, pan-fried potato cakes
