Potatoes have been a staple food for centuries, with the first recorded cultivation being in South America over 7,000 years ago. Since then, potatoes have become one of the most widely consumed vegetables across the globe, with countless ways to prepare them. One innovative way to use leftover mashed potatoes is by turning them into crispy, flavorful cakes using an air fryer.
What makes air fryer mashed potato cakes special is their versatility as a side dish or snack. They’re easy to make and can be customized with a variety of seasonings and toppings. Plus, they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried potato cakes that are loaded with excess oil and calories. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve that same crispy texture without the guilt.
Air fryer mashed potato cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress your guests at a dinner party or indulge in a savory snack. They are particularly ideal for holiday gatherings, where leftovers are plentiful, and everyone is looking for creative ways to use them up.
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes: Use cold mashed potatoes for better consistency.
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Adds flavor and helps bind the cakes.
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions: Provides a fresh and savory taste.
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour: Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps with the crispy exterior.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder for the potato cakes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Optional: Additional seasonings and herbs: You can add garlic powder, paprika, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
Equipment Needed:
- Air fryer: Used for cooking the mashed potato cakes.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining the ingredients.
- Spatula or spoon: Used for shaping and transferring the potato cakes.
- Plate or tray: Used for holding the shaped potato cakes before air frying.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Cake Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, all-purpose flour, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings or herbs you desire.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture holds together.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Cakes
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and shape it into a flat, round patty using your hands.
- Repeat the process with the remaining mixture until all the potato cakes are formed.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry the Potato Cakes
- Place the potato cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each cake.
- Cook the potato cakes in the air fryer for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process, until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the potato cakes are cooked to your desired crispiness, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate.
- Serve the mashed potato cakes hot as a side dish or appetizer.
- You can serve them plain or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
Tips and Tricks to Know:
- Using cold mashed potatoes helps the cakes hold their shape better. If your mashed potatoes are warm, refrigerate them for a while before using them for this recipe.
- If the potato mixture feels too sticky or wet, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Experiment with different types of cheese or add-ins like cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or herbs to customize the flavor of the potato cakes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy the air fryer mashed potato cakes as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
- Serve them as a tasty appetizer or snack at parties or gatherings.
- Top the potato cakes with a dollop of sour cream, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.
Storage Options:
- The mashed potato cakes are best enjoyed immediately after cooking to maintain their crispy texture.
- If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- To reheat the potato cakes, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While it’s possible to use instant mashed potatoes, the texture and flavor of the cakes may not be as good as using homemade or freshly made mashed potatoes.
2. Can I make the potato cakes in advance?
Yes, you can shape the potato cakes in advance and refrigerate them until ready to air fry. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out.
3. Can I freeze the potato cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato cakes for later use. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour as a substitute if you follow a gluten-free diet.
5. Can I use leftover sweet potatoes instead?
Sure! You can use leftover mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes to create sweet potato cakes. Adjust the seasonings and add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a delicious twist.
Air Fryer Mashed Potato Cakes
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Plate or tray
Ingredients
- 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes cold
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Additional seasonings and herbs garlic powder, paprika, fresh herbs
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, all-purpose flour, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings or herbs you desire. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture holds together.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and shape it into a flat, round patty using your hands. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture until all the potato cakes are formed.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the potato cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each cake. Cook the potato cakes in the air fryer for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process, until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Once the potato cakes are cooked to your desired crispiness, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate.
- Serve the mashed potato cakes hot as a side dish or appetizer. You can serve them plain or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
