There’s something incredibly comforting about mashed potatoes. They are the ultimate side dish, but what if you could take them to the next level? Enter Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes! These savory little delights are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, thanks to the luscious mashed potatoes combined with rich, tangy Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Imagine serving these cakes alongside your favorite protein or even on their own with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce. They are versatile, full of flavor, and oh-so-satisfying. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness of Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes apart is their delightful texture and flavor. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy center, creating a wonderful contrast that makes each bite irresistible. The added herbs, such as parsley and chives, bring freshness and vibrancy, making these cakes not just a comfort food but also a gourmet experience. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen!
What We’re Using
To make these delectable Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes (about 1 lb) – Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture.
- 1 egg – This helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, savory flavor.
- Extra ½ cup for dredging – For that extra cheesy crust.
- ½ cup chopped parsley – Freshness and color.
- ½ cup chopped chives or scallions – For a mild onion flavor.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps to bind and create a crispy texture.
- ½ tsp salt or to taste – Enhances the flavors.
- ½ tsp pepper or to taste – Adds a bit of warmth.
- 3 tbsp olive oil for frying – For that perfect golden crust.
Equipment & Tools
To create these delicious cakes, you will need:
- Potato masher or ricer – For smooth mashed potatoes.
- Mixing bowl – To combine all the ingredients.
- Frying pan – For frying the cakes to a crisp.
- Spatula – For flipping the cakes.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Cooking Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes: The Process
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling the large potatoes and cutting them into even chunks. This will ensure they cook uniformly. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chives (or scallions), flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when formed into cakes.
Step 4: Form the Cakes
Using your hands, take a portion of the potato mixture and shape it into a patty, about ½ inch thick. Repeat until all the mixture is used. You should have around 8-10 cakes, depending on the size.
Step 5: Dredge in Parmesan
On a plate, spread out the extra ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Gently press each potato cake into the cheese to coat both sides. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when fried.
Step 6: Fry the Cakes
In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place a few potato cakes in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
These Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes are best served warm. Enjoy them as a side dish or snack, and watch them disappear quickly!
Dietary Customizations
If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, here are a few ways to customize this recipe:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill, basil, or thyme for unique flavors.
Insider Tips
To ensure your Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are not too wet; this can lead to soggy cakes. Drain them well and let them cool before mixing.
- For added flavor, try mixing in some garlic powder or onion powder into the potato mixture.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cakes to avoid them absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
- Keep the cakes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while frying the rest to serve them hot.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers or want to prepare these cakes in advance, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store the cooled cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked cakes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until heated through and crispy.
Reader Q&A
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a different twist. Just ensure to adjust the amount based on the cheese’s saltiness.
What can I serve with Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes?
These cakes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try serving them alongside Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Cutlets, a fresh salad, or even a rich sauce like gravy for a hearty meal.
Can I make these cakes in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Form the cakes and fry them just before serving for the best texture.
How do I achieve the perfect crispy crust?
The key to a crispy crust is ensuring the oil is hot enough before adding the cakes. Additionally, dredging them in Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also enhances the crispiness!
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes are a fantastic way to elevate your potato game. With their crispy exterior and cheesy interior, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting meal at home, these cakes will not disappoint. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every delicious bite of these delightful potato cakes!
Parmesan Mashed Potato Cakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling the large potatoes and cutting them into even chunks. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth and allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about ½ inch thick, until all the mixture is used, yielding around 8-10 cakes.
- Dredge each cake in the extra Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to coat both sides.
- In a frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure mashed potatoes are not too wet to prevent soggy cakes.
- Add garlic or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Keep cakes warm in a low oven while frying.
