Old Fashioned Potato Cakes
Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside — Old Fashioned Potato Cakes are pure comfort food. Made from simple pantry ingredients, these golden patties are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.
They’re budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a cozy side dish. One bite of that crispy crust and creamy center, and you’ll understand why this recipe has been passed down for generations.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Perfect for using leftover mashed potatoes
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Crispy golden crust
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Soft, creamy interior
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Simple, inexpensive ingredients
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Ready in under 30 minutes
📝 Ingredients (Makes 8–10 Potato Cakes)
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2 cups cold mashed potatoes
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1 egg
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¼ cup all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
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2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2–3 tablespoons butter or oil for frying
Optional additions:
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¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley or chives
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A pinch of garlic powder
👩🍳 How to Make Old Fashioned Potato Cakes
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, flour, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape. If too soft, add a little more flour.
Step 2: Shape the Cakes
Lightly flour your hands and form the mixture into small patties, about ½-inch thick.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. The pan should be hot but not smoking.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Place the potato cakes in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm.
🔥 Tips for Extra Crispiness
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Use cold mashed potatoes — they hold together better.
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Don’t flip too early; let a crust form first.
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Use butter for richer flavor, oil for higher crisp.
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Add a little cornstarch (1 tablespoon) for extra crunch.
🥓 Serving Ideas
Old fashioned potato cakes pair perfectly with:
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Fried eggs and bacon
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Applesauce (traditional pairing)
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Gravy
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Smoked salmon
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A fresh green salad
They’re just as good for breakfast as they are for dinner.
🧀 Flavor Variations
Cheesy Potato Cakes
Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the batter.
Loaded Version
Add crumbled bacon and green onions.
Herb & Garlic
Add fresh herbs and garlic powder for a savory twist.
Sweet Version
Skip onion and pepper. Add a pinch of sugar and serve with syrup.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness.
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Freeze cooked cakes for up to 2 months.
Avoid microwaving if possible — it softens the crust.
💛 Why This Recipe Never Goes Out of Style
Old fashioned potato cakes are a perfect example of simple ingredients creating something truly satisfying. They stretch leftovers into a brand-new dish and bring warmth to any table.
Whether served alongside breakfast or as a comforting side, these crispy golden potato cakes are always a hit.