Dinner

Cheddar Cheddar Mashed Potato Pancakes Recipe

ByHarry Bern November 3, 2025November 3, 2025

Introduction

Mashed potato pancakes are a delicious and creative way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy treat. These golden patties are perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer and come with a flavorful kick from scallions and spices.

The image shows a white round plate with eight golden-brown crab cakes, each about the same size and shape, arranged in a loose circle. The crab cakes have a crispy, textured breadcrumb crust with small bits of green herbs mixed in, and they are topped with thin slices of bright green scallions scattered over them. Near the top left of the plate sits a small dark bowl filled with smooth white sour cream or dipping sauce. In the background, there is another white plate with two crab cakes, one of which is broken in half, also topped with a dollop of white sour cream and green scallions. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a striped napkin, and there are two stacked white plates with white-handled silver forks on the right side of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
⅔ cup grated cheddar cheese
3 scallions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
½ teaspoon onion powder
Pinch cayenne pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
Avocado oil (for the pan)
Sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, stir together the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, parsley, egg, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the flour and mix until just combined.
Step 2: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Use a ¼-cup measuring cup to scoop the potato mixture, then shape it into thick patties with your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, chill in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up. Coat each patty in the panko, then flatten until about ½-inch thick.
Step 3: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add enough avocado oil to coat the bottom. Working in batches if needed, add the pancakes and press gently with a spatula to ensure good contact with the pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
Step 4: Garnish with additional chopped scallions and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer a crispier texture, use more panko for coating or fry the pancakes a bit longer on each side.
To add extra flavor, mix in a teaspoon of garlic powder or smoked paprika into the potato mixture.
For a vegetarian version, ensure your mashed potatoes don’t contain meat-based ingredients.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for different cheese flavors.

Storage

Store leftover mashed potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy again, or use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface holding eight golden-brown, crispy patties arranged in a loose circle. Each patty has a rough texture with visible bits of green herbs or scallions mixed throughout. Thin slices of fresh green scallions are scattered on and around the patties, adding a pop of bright green color. To the side on the plate is a small dark gray bowl filled with smooth, creamy white sour cream or dip, contrasting with the textured patties. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these pancakes without leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can make fresh mashed potatoes and let them cool completely before using. Just be sure they’re not too wet, as that can affect the texture of the pancakes.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed crackers for coating. Panko provides extra crispiness, but alternatives work well too.