Cheesy Potato Patties

Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Potato Patties

1. Cook the Potatoes

• Begin by boiling the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or fork until smooth. You can leave a few small lumps for extra texture, if you prefer.

2. Prepare the Cheese and Seasonings

• While the potatoes are still warm, stir in the shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice), allowing it to melt into the mashed potatoes. The warmth of the potatoes will help the cheese melt and create a gooey, cheesy center.
• Add the Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

3. Form the Patties

• Let the mashed potato mixture cool down slightly, just enough so you can handle it without burning your hands. Once it’s cool enough, shape the mixture into small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
• You can make them as thick or thin as you like, but remember, thinner patties will get crispier and cook more quickly.

4. Dredge the Patties

• Set up a dredging station with flour on one plate and breadcrumbs (combined with extra Parmesan, if desired) on another. Gently coat each patty first in flour, then dip it into the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating on both sides.

5. Fry the Patties

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded patties into the skillet.
• Cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, frying each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the patties carefully with a spatula to avoid breaking them apart.

6. Drain and Serve

• Once the patties are golden and crispy, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the cheesy potato patties immediately while they’re warm and crispy. They’re perfect on their own, or you can pair them with a dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy ketchup.

Why Cheesy Potato Patties are a Must-Try

1. Crispy Perfection: The combination of a crispy breadcrumb coating and gooey, cheesy filling makes these patties irresistible. The contrast between the textures is what makes them so enjoyable to eat.
2. Versatile Flavor: You can easily change up the flavors to suit your preferences. Add cooked bacon, green onions, or even a bit of chili powder to the potato mixture for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
3. Great for Any Meal: These patties can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light main course. Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal or serve them alongside grilled meats for a hearty dinner.
4. Kid-Friendly: Kids love crispy food, and these cheesy potato patties are no exception. They’re a fun way to get little ones to eat their potatoes, and the cheesy goodness makes them a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make these patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry them. They also freeze well, so you can prepare a large batch, freeze them, and fry them up whenever you’re craving a quick snack.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potato Patties

• Use Starchy Potatoes: For the best texture, choose starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes. They mash well and give the patties a light, fluffy interior.
• Let the Potato Mixture Cool: Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly before shaping the patties to ensure they hold their shape better while frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Fry the patties in batches so they can crisp up properly. Overcrowding the skillet can cause them to become soggy.
• Adjust the Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness and sharp cheddar for flavor. You can also experiment with adding cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• For a Healthier Version: If you want to make a lighter version, you can bake the patties instead of frying them. Simply place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion: A Cheesy, Crispy Delight

These Cheesy Potato Patties are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and comforting. They make a fantastic snack, side dish, or even a light main course, and they’re sure to become a regular in your kitchen. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior, these patties are simply irresistible.

Try making them today, and watch as they quickly become a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion!