If you’re anything like my family… we always make a huge batch of mashed potatoes for any of our holiday dinners.

And of course, there are always a ton of leftovers. Actually, leftover mashed potatoes happen no matter if I’m making them from scratch or just whipping up a quick pouch of Idaho Spuds for dinner.

I love mashed potatoes and my eyes are always bigger than my stomach when making them… haha.

But there is only one thing that happens with all those leftover mashed potatoes – we make potato pancakes with them for breakfast the next morning and also to eat as a side dish for the next couple nights dinner.

If they last that long…

These are perfect topped with a little sour cream and extra cheese (like the hubbs enjoys) or for breakfast topped with a tiny bit of syrup and bacon crumbles.

Either way you cannot go wrong and these will turn into a family tradition for you just like it is for us!

What are Cheesy Potato Pancakes?

Originating from the heart of comfort food traditions, Cheesy Potato Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic potato pancake. Traditionally known as “latkes” in Jewish cuisine, these pancakes have been adapted to include a generous helping of shredded Mexican cheese, adding a rich and savory flavor profile. The combination of mashed potatoes and cheese creates a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

These pancakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish, a main course, or even a snack. The addition of green onions adds a subtle hint of freshness, while the cheese brings a savory depth that is simply irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make and require only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Mashed Potatoes: The base of our pancakes, mashed potatoes provide a creamy and smooth texture that forms the foundation of this dish.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese: This cheese blend adds a rich, savory flavor and a gooey texture that melts beautifully within the pancakes.
• Large Egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring that the pancakes hold together while adding a subtle richness.
• Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and potatoes.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used both in the mixture and for dredging, flour helps to achieve the desired consistency and contributes to the crispy exterior.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying, it ensures the pancakes are cooked evenly and achieve a golden-brown, crispy finish.

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Substitutions & Additions

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to suit your taste. For a healthier twist, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. If you’re looking to add a bit of spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the mixture.

How to Make this Recipe

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheese, egg, green onions, and flour. The mixture should be thick enough to form into balls. If not, gradually add more flour until the desired consistency is achieved.

Prepare for Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place ½ cup flour in a shallow dish for dredging.

Form Pancakes: Divide the potato mixture into 16 portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a pancake shape. Dredge each pancake in flour before placing it in the hot oil.

Fry Pancakes: Cook each pancake for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil to the pan as needed.

Serve: Remove pancakes from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, if desired. Serve warm with sour cream, extra cheese, and more green onions.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the pancakes to achieve a crispy exterior.

Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking.

For an extra crispy texture, double dredge the pancakes in flour before frying.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a side of applesauce. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of hearty soup.

Storage Suggestions

Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

Can I freeze these pancakes?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What can I serve with these pancakes?

They pair well with sour cream, applesauce, or a fresh salad.

Cheesy Potato Pancakes are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a comforting blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a main course, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness of these pancakes and savor the warmth they bring to your table.