Easy Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Whip up savory Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes in minutes for a mouthwatering dish that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside. This recipe transforms simple leftover mashed potatoes into a golden, delicious treat perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With the irresistible flavors of smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, these patty cakes are sure to become your go-to comfort food whenever you want something easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Uses leftover mashed potatoes and requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy days.
• Deliciously Crispy: The outside develops a perfect golden crust while the inside remains creamy and cheesy.
• Versatile Meal: Works great for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a snack anytime.
• Family Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults adore the comforting flavors and satisfying texture.
• Budget-Smart: Uses simple ingredients you likely have already, reducing food waste and saving money.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple with ingredients that complement each other beautifully, giving the patty cakes a lovely balance of flavor, texture, and color.

• Leftover mashed potatoes: The base ingredient, creamy and smooth to provide the perfect texture.
• Bacon: Adds smoky saltiness and a wonderful crunch.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside for that gooey, savory burst.
• Egg: Binds the mixture together to hold the patties while frying.
• Green onions or chives: Provides freshness and a subtle onion flavor for balance.
• Flour or breadcrumbs: Helps create a crispy coating or firm the cakes depending on your choice.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Oil or butter: For frying and achieving that perfectly crisp crust.

Variations for Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Feel free to experiment and tailor this recipe to your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s incredibly adaptable without losing its comforting essence.

• Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a smoky depth.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a gooier texture and a bit of spicy kick.
• Herb Infused: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the aroma and flavor complexity.
• Spicy Version: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or crushed gluten-free crackers or skip the coating entirely.

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove it and drain on paper towels, then chop into small pieces. Reserve a little bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor during frying.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mix your leftover mashed potatoes with the chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and one egg. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Scoop out portions of the mixture and gently shape into round patties about 2-3 inches wide. If the mixture feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little flour or breadcrumbs to help bind them firmly.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat a generous amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Remove the cakes and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.

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

• Use chilled mashed potatoes: Cold potatoes bind better and create firmer cakes.
• Don’t overwork the mixture: Mix gently to keep the texture tender inside.
• Moderate the heat: Cook over medium heat for a crispy crust without burning.
• Test one patty first: Fry a small sample to check seasoning and consistency before cooking the whole batch.
• Customize the thickness: Make patties thinner for crispier results or thicker for a soft interior.

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh chives, or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese for an enticing presentation and delicious flavor boost.

Side Dishes

Pair these patty cakes with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or eggs cooked any style for a hearty and balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Make sliders by stuffing the cakes in small buns with crispy lettuce and your favorite sauce, or crumble them over a bowl of chili or soup as a crunchy topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooked patty cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain texture and flavor well when cooled properly.

Freezing

Flash freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftover patty cakes in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or warm them briefly in the oven. Avoid microwaving to keep the edges from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these patty cakes without leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can prepare fresh mashed potatoes, let them cool, and use them just like leftovers. Make sure they’re not too runny for best results.

What type of cheese works best in Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes?

Cheddar is ideal for its flavor and meltability, but you can also use mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack depending on your preferences.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. Place patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Simply substitute the flour or breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or omit them if the mashed potatoes are firm enough.

Are Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes good for meal prep?

Yes, they reheat well and can be stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick yet comforting dish that turns leftovers into pure magic, give these Bacon Cheddar Patty Cakes with Leftover Mashed Potatoes a try. Each bite offers that perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and smoky flavors that feel like a warm hug on your plate. Whether it’s a busy morning or a relaxed dinner, these patty cakes are guaranteed to become a family favorite you’ll make again and again.

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