These Loaded Potato Cakes are a kicked-up version of an old Southern favorite. They're filled with cheddar cheese, smoky bacon and the perfect seasoning blend and coated in a surprise crunchy coating that takes them over-the-top.
Loaded Potato Cakes are a Spud Loving Side Dish Option
Being inherently frugal, I love being able to transform ingredients into something spectacular for another meal. While leftover potatoes are a rarity any amount of leftover potatoes can be transformed into something new. Potato cakes are always a delicious alternative and they never disappoint. This updated version is how I prepare potato cakes for my family, who never turn down the bacon and cheese combo. It's a fantastic way to stretch leftovers, and create a completely different tasting dish, too.
Helpful Tips for Making Potato Cakes
- The mashed potatoes you start with must be cold and not too thin.
- I made these potato cakes using leftover Swiss Cheese Mashed Potatoes turning leftovers into a real supper-time treat.
- They can be prepared with or without the bacon, cheddar and chives, if you prefer the old school version, but who would want to?
- Feel free to sub out turkey bacon, light cheese and butter to lighten them up just a smidge.
- I love them probably more than I should, in pretty much any form. So does my family.
- Dishes like make ahead Baked Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes and cheesy Potato Puffs Recipe from Food Network, always satisfy.
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Helpful Kitchen Items:
Loaded Potato Cakes
Ingredients
- 3 cup cold mashed potatoes
- ⅓ cup whipped cream cheese
- 2 large eggs beaten
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ¼ cup finely shredded colby-jack or cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 3 tablespoon fresh chives finely chopped
- 2 cup finely crushed plain or Ranch flavored potato chips [more if needed]
- vegetable oil and butter for frying
- sour cream
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl mix together the cold potatoes, cream cheese and eggs. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, seasonings and baking powder until fully combined then mix into the potatoes. Add the cheese, bacon and chives, reserving a small amount of each for garnishing. Mix well.
- Use a 4 oz ice cream scoop to separate the potato mixture into cakes. Carefully roll in the crushed potato chips and shape. Place onto a parchment lined pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes. [Tip: Cold potato cakes will better maintain their shape when frying.]
- To prepare, heat a couple of drizzles of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet with 1 tablespoon butter. When the butter has melted add the potato cakes.
- Fry over medium-high in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, turning as needed until golden on both sides. Add additional oil and 1 tablespoon butter to the pan between batches.
- Remove to a platter and keep warm while frying all of the potato cakes. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chives, shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
Nutrition
My name is Melissa and I'm the Creator of Melissa's Southern Style Kitchen. Cooking, baking, developing recipes and kitchen tips is my passion. I love sharing my dishes and connecting with people through the food that I create.
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Stacy S
Can you freeze and fry later?
Melissa
You probably could but, I haven't tested it. If you try it let us know how it goes.
Tracey
Do you think these could be baked rather than fried?
Melissa
Hi Tracey, that's a great question. I haven't tested this exact recipe baked but, they likely could be. If you try it, let us know how it goes.
Bobbi
Could you use panko bread crumbs in stead of chips. Would they fry up without burning
Melissa
Oh sure, you can if you prefer but, they'll need seasoning.
Elizabeth
Me encantan tus recetas!
Melissa
Thank you!
Elizabeth
Todas tus recetas son espectaculares! Gracias Melissa.
Melissa
Thank you!
plasterer bristol
this sounds good. Something new to try as well. thanks for sharing this recipe.
Simon
Carol at Wild Goose Tea
Wow no lie---these are loaded potato cakes. These would also be VERY popular potato cakes in my family. I pinned it.
Maria Brittis
Fantastic recipes for this weekend! I'm cooking up a storm and need some ideas.. these are perfect..
Maria
Melissa
When you're eating potato cakes, calories don't count right Linda? ☺ Thanks for popping over!
Linda
Wow, you really got me with this one Melissa. Potato cakes rolled in potato chips, This is a must make! Love your recipes, and you inspire me.
Melissa
Hi Melissa, my pleasure!
Melissa @ My Recent Favorite Books
Thanks for this recipe! Im going to try it soon!