Cheesy Mashed Potato Cakes

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2. Shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick. You can use your hands or a cookie cutter to achieve a uniform shape.

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato cakes in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.

4. Cook the potato cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

5. Remove the potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

6. Serve the cheesy mashed potato cakes hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, additional shredded cheese, or fresh herbs. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success
– It’s important to use cold mashed potatoes for this recipe. If your mashed potatoes are warm or room temperature, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before proceeding.

– If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can make a fresh batch specifically for this recipe. Simply boil peeled potatoes until they are soft, then mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.

– To add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating cooked and crumbled bacon, diced sautéed onions, or grated Parmesan cheese into the mashed potato mixture.

– For crispier potato cakes, you can use a combination of vegetable oil and butter for frying. The butter adds a rich and savory taste.

– If you’re short on time, you can prepare the potato cakes in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. Just make sure to place a layer of parchment paper between each cake to prevent them from sticking together.

Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about cheesy mashed potato cakes is their versatility. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

– Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

– Add diced cooked vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or corn to the mashed potato mixture for extra texture and nutrients.

– Experiment with different herbs and spices like paprika, dried thyme, or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor of your potato cakes.

– For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.

Serving Suggestions
Cheesy mashed potato cakes can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:

– Serve the potato cakes as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

– Pair them with a fresh green salad for a light and satisfying meal.

– Make a breakfast twist by serving the potato cakes with a poached egg and crispy bacon.

– Offer them as an appetizer or party snack with a dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup.

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