What makes the perfect comfort food side dish? Fluffy mashed potatoes get a crispy twist in these loaded mashed potato cakes, made with tender potatoes and pan-fried to a golden brown, then topped with a dollop of sour cream for an easy weeknight dinner favorite, save this idea

loaded mashed potato cakes with sour cream on top

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the excitement of a crispy, golden cake, all topped with a dollop of cool sour cream. Loaded mashed potato cakes with sour cream on top are not just a side dish, but an experience. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and offer a creative twist on everyday ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a new side to impress your family or a unique appetizer for your next gathering, these loaded mashed potato cakes are sure to hit the spot. With their perfect balance of textures and flavors, they’re a dish that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of mashed potatoes, crispy exterior, and sour cream offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that is hard to resist. Plus, the ingredients are readily available and affordable.
• Ease of preparation: Despite their impressive appearance and taste, loaded mashed potato cakes are surprisingly easy to prepare. They require minimal ingredients and can be made in under an hour.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The best part about these cakes is the wow factor they bring to the table without requiring extensive culinary skills or a lot of time. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or as a dish to take to a potluck.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for loaded mashed potato cakes include mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, diced onions, chopped bacon or bacon bits, and sour cream for topping. You can also add some chopped scallions or chives for extra flavor and color. For the mashed potatoes, use high-quality potatoes that are high in starch, like Russet potatoes, for the fluffiest results. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with roasted garlic or sautéed mushrooms for added depth of flavor. The sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onions and bacon, and shred the cheese. If using fresh scallions, chop them as well and set aside.
2. Step 2: Cook the mashed potatoes according to your preference, either by boiling and mashing them with butter and milk or by using leftover mashed potatoes. Let them cool slightly to handle.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, diced onions, and chopped bacon. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into patties. You should be able to make about 4-6 patties depending on the size you prefer. Dip each patty into beaten eggs and then coat in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior.
5. Step 5: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the potato cakes and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Step 6: Remove the cakes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top and garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.

Handy Tips

• Make sure the mashed potatoes are not too wet, as this can make the cakes fall apart. If your potatoes seem too moist, you can add a little more shredded cheese or some flour to absorb the excess moisture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the cakes in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• For an extra crispy coating, you can chill the coated potato cakes in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying.

Heat Control

When frying the potato cakes, it’s crucial to maintain the right temperature. The ideal temperature for frying is between 325°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the exterior will burn before the interior is fully cooked. If it’s too cold, the cakes will absorb too much oil and be greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, and adjust the heat as needed. The cakes are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in loaded mashed potato cakes comes from the crispy exterior, which is achieved by coating the cakes in breadcrumbs and frying them until golden. To enhance the crunch, make sure the oil is at the right temperature, and don’t skip the step of chilling the coated cakes if you have the time. The contrast between the crunchy outside and the soft, fluffy inside, topped with cool sour cream, is what makes these cakes so addictive.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a lighter version, you can bake the cakes instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
• Use different types of cheese for varying flavors. Cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan all work well and can be mixed for a unique blend.
• Experiment with spices. A pinch of paprika or garlic powder can add a lot of depth to the cakes.

Storage Tips

• Leftover loaded mashed potato cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• For longer storage, the cakes can be frozen before frying. Simply shape the cakes, coat them in breadcrumbs, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Fry frozen cakes as you would fresh ones, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• When reheating, make sure the cakes are heated through to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering giving loaded mashed potato cakes as a gift, perhaps for a holiday or housewarming, you can package them in a variety of creative ways. Consider placing cooled, unfried cakes in a decorative tin or container, along with a bottle of sour cream or chives for topping. You could also include a recipe card with instructions on how to fry and serve them. For a more rustic approach, wrap the cakes individually in parchment paper and tie with twine, placing them in a basket or bag with other gourmet goodies.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the potato mixture for a unique flavor profile.
• Creative toppings: In addition to sour cream, consider topping your loaded mashed potato cakes with diced tomatoes, salsa, avocado, or a fried egg for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegan version, you could substitute the cheese with a vegan alternative and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for coating. For gluten-free, ensure that your breadcrumbs are gluten-free.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your cakes are too dense, it might be because the potatoes were over-mashed or too much flour was added. If they’re too crumbly, the mixture might be too dry, so try adding a little more mashed potato or egg to bind it together.
• Ingredient replacements: Always consider the flavor and texture you’re trying to achieve when substituting ingredients. For example, if you’re replacing bacon with mushrooms, sauté the mushrooms first to bring out their flavor.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the cakes are not crispy and golden after the recommended cooking time, they might not be done. Check for doneness by cutting into one of the cakes; it should be cooked through and not mushy in the center.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, loaded mashed potato cakes can be frozen before frying. Simply follow the instructions for shaping and coating, then freeze. Fry frozen cakes as you would fresh ones, adjusting the cooking time if necessary.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to cook the cakes in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Loaded mashed potato cakes with sour cream on top are a culinary delight that combines comfort food with a creative twist. They’re perfect for any meal, from a quick weeknight dinner to! a special occasion. With their ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and delicious flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these loaded mashed potato cakes are a dish that’s sure to please.