What Are Cheesy Potato Patties?
Cheesy potato patties are pan-fried or baked cakes made from mashed potatoes mixed with cheese, seasonings, and a light binder such as egg or flour. Once shaped into patties, they’re cooked until crispy and golden on the outside while staying soft and gooey inside.
They are popular across many cuisines because they:
- Use simple ingredients
- Are easy to customize
- Can be made ahead
- Please both kids and adults
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This version focuses on perfect texture and balanced flavor:
- Creamy mashed potatoes as the base
- Melty cheese for richness
- Light seasoning to enhance (not overpower)
- A crispy exterior for contrast
It’s a foolproof method that works even for beginners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes (about 800 g), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or olive oil
Optional Add-Ins
- Chili flakes or paprika
- Cooked bacon bits
- Grated onion
- Corn kernels
Choosing the Right Potatoes
The best potatoes for patties are starchy or all-purpose.
Best choices:
- Russet potatoes
- Yukon Gold
Avoid waxy potatoes, as they don’t mash as well and can make the patties dense.
Preparing the Potatoes
Step 1: Boil Until Tender
- Place potatoes in a pot of cold, salted water
- Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes
- Potatoes should be fork-tender
Drain well.
Step 2: Mash Thoroughly
Mash the potatoes while still warm until smooth.
Avoid adding milk or butter—this keeps the mixture firm enough to shape.
Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly before mixing.
Making the Patty Mixture
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Binder
To the mashed potatoes, add:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Egg
- Flour or breadcrumbs
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Fold in the Cheese
Add shredded cheese and herbs.
Mix gently so the cheese stays evenly distributed.
The mixture should be soft but not sticky. If too wet, add a little more flour.
Shaping the Patties
Step 5: Form Even Patties
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture
- Roll lightly, then flatten into patties
- Aim for even thickness so they cook evenly
Place on a plate while shaping the rest.
Cooking the Patties
Step 6: Pan-Frying Method
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat
- Add patties without overcrowding
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 7: Baking Option (Healthier)
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Brush patties lightly with oil
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway
They’ll be slightly less crispy but still delicious.
Texture and Flavor Experience
A perfect cheesy potato patty should be:
- Crisp and golden outside
- Soft, creamy inside
- Rich with melted cheese
- Lightly seasoned, not heavy
The contrast in textures is what makes them addictive.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheesy potato patties with:
- Sour cream or yogurt dip
- Garlic aioli
- Ketchup or chili sauce
- Fresh salad on the side
They also make great burger substitutes or sandwich fillers.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
- Shape patties and refrigerate up to 24 hours
- Fry just before serving
Storage
- Refrigerate cooked patties up to 3 days
Reheating
- Reheat in a pan or oven to restore crispiness
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using watery potatoes
- Adding too much cheese (causes breaking)
- Frying on too high heat
- Overhandling the mixture
Gentle handling keeps the patties tender.
Easy Variations to Try
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Herb-Loaded
Add dill, chives, or cilantro.
Stuffed Patties
Hide a cube of cheese in the center for extra meltiness.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based cheese and flax egg.
Nutritional Overview (Approximate)
Per patty:
- Calories: 120–150
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Balanced
- Protein: From cheese and egg
A satisfying snack without being too heavy.
When to Serve Cheesy Potato Patties
These patties are perfect for:
- Breakfast or brunch
- Lunchboxes
- Party appetizers
- Side dishes for dinner
They’re flexible, comforting, and always popular.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Potato Patties are a timeless comfort food—simple ingredients, big flavor, and endless versatility. Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, they’re one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.