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Crispy Irish Mashed Potato Cakes

Irish mashed potato cakes - featured image
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These crispy Irish mashed potato cakes are a comforting appetizer featuring golden potatoes, sharp cheddar, and fresh green onions. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any gathering, they deliver a crunchy exterior and creamy, cheesy center in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cold mashed potatoes (about 500g, leftover or freshly made, not too runny)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp Irish cheddar cheese (about 4 oz, Kerrygold recommended)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh green onions
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk (dairy-free if needed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or light olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for frying)
  • Extra green onions or chives, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Gather and measure all ingredients. If using freshly made mashed potatoes, let them cool to room temperature.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, flour, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
  3. Beat eggs with buttermilk (or milk) and add to the bowl. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Shape mixture into 8 round cakes, about 1/2 inch thick and 2.5 inches wide. If sticky, dust lightly with extra flour. Chill cakes for 10 minutes (optional).
  5. Heat oil (and butter, if using) in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high until shimmering.
  6. Place 4 potato cakes in the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently.
  7. Transfer cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Repeat with remaining cakes, adding more oil if needed.
  8. Arrange cakes on a platter. Garnish with sliced green onions or chives and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use firm, chilled mashed potatoes. If mixture is too wet, add more flour; if too dry, add a splash of buttermilk. Cakes can be baked at 425°F for 20-25 minutes for a lighter version. Variations include gluten-free flour, dairy-free cheese, or adding bacon, ham, or fresh herbs. Keep cooked cakes warm in a 200°F oven while finishing the batch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish potato cakes, mashed potato cakes, St. Patrick's Day appetizer, cheddar potato cakes, crispy potato cakes, comfort food, easy appetizer, party snack

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