How to Make Potato Pancakes Out of Mashed Potatoes Recipe

How to Make Potato Pancakes Out of Mashed Potatoes

If you are searching how do you make potato pancakes out of mashed potatoes. You have come to the right place. Here is the easy crispy mashed potato pancakes recipe.

Potato pancakes, also known as latkes or fritters, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. If you have leftover mashed potatoes and want to give them a new life, turning them into potato pancakes is a great way to do so. These crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside pancakes are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make potato pancakes out of mashed potatoes recipe.

How to Make Potato Pancakes Out of Mashed Potatoes

Learn how to turn leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden potato pancakes with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (you can substitute with breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or green onion (optional for added flavor)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as cheddar or Parmesan)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like parsley or chives (optional)
• Cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or olive oil) for frying

Potato Pancakes Out of Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

If your mashed potatoes have been refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This makes them easier to mix with the other ingredients.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

Put the flour, egg, and mashed potatoes into a big mixing bowl. The egg helps bind the mixture, while the flour adds structure, making the pancakes hold together during frying.

If you want to enhance the flavor, add finely chopped onion or green onion, shredded cheese, and your choice of herbs. Add salt, pepper, and, if desired, garlic powder to the mixture to season it.

Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when formed into patties. If it's too soft, add a little more flour or breadcrumbs.

3. Form the Pancakes:

Scoop out about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and form it into a small patty, roughly 1/2-inch thick. You have the option to enlarge or reduce them to suit your tastes. Continue forming patties until you’ve used up all the mixture.

4. Heat the Oil:

A big skillet should be heated to medium heat and should have enough oil in it to cover the bottom. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when you add the pancakes, but not so hot that it smokes.

5. Fry the Potato Pancakes:

Carefully place the potato patties in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Use a spatula to flip the pancakes gently, ensuring they don’t break apart.

If your pancakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.

6. Drain the Pancakes:

Once the pancakes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.

7. Serve:

Potato pancakes are best served hot, right after frying. You may eat them simply or with a range of toppings. Popular options include sour cream, applesauce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. For a savory twist, try topping them with smoked salmon and a sprinkle of dill.

Tips for Perfect Potato Pancakes:

• Consistency is Key: The texture of your mashed potatoes will greatly affect the outcome. If your mashed potatoes are too soft or have too much liquid, the pancakes may not hold together well. In this case, adding extra flour or breadcrumbs can help.
• Season Well: Mashed potatoes often have some seasoning already, but it’s important to taste your mixture before frying and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your potato pancakes. Add-ins like shredded cheese, bacon bits, or chopped herbs can add great flavor. Just be careful not to overload the mixture, as too many extras can make it hard for the pancakes to stay together.

Storing and Reheating:

If you have leftovers (though they might be too tasty to leave any behind), store the cooked potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, either put them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until they are crispy and warmed through, or you can bake them for about ten minutes at 350°F.

Conclusion:

Making potato pancakes out of mashed potatoes is a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers into a new and exciting dish. These crispy, golden pancakes are easy to prepare, versatile, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you enjoy them plain or with your favorite toppings, potato pancakes are a comforting and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any meal.