What makes a perfect side dish turn into a showstopping main event? These mashed potato pancakes are a quick and easy homemade solution for a weeknight dinner, made with fluffy mashed potatoes and pan-fried to a golden crisp, topped with sour cream and chives. Save this idea for a delicious family favorite meal.

mashed potato pancakes on a white plate topped with sour cream and chives in the background

Introduction

Imagine a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, made with ingredients you likely have on hand. Mashed potato pancakes are a creative twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, all topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, reducing food waste and saving you time. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for a variety of toppings and fillings to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a snack, or even a light meal, mashed potato pancakes are an excellent choice. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress both family and friends.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of mashed potatoes, sour cream, and chives provides a well-balanced flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet. All the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this dish accessible to everyone.
Ease of preparation: The recipe requires minimal preparation time, as it utilizes leftover mashed potatoes. The steps involved are straightforward, from mixing the potato mixture to frying the pancakes.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is impressive. The crispy, golden pancakes topped with sour cream and chives make for a visually appealing dish that’s sure to delight.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include leftover mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, egg, salt, pepper, olive oil, sour cream, and chives. The mashed potatoes provide the base of the dish, while the flour and egg help bind the mixture together. Salt and pepper are used to season the pancakes, and olive oil is used for frying. Sour cream and chives add a tangy, fresh flavor on top. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using different types of flour or adding diced herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, ensure they’re at room temperature. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and you have a thick, cohesive mixture.
Step 2: Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. You should end up with around 8-10 patties, depending on the size you prefer for your pancakes.
Step 3: Heat a large non-stick skillet or frying pan with about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add a few of the potato patties (do not overcrowd the pan) and fry until they’re golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining patties.
Step 4: Once the pancakes are cooked, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the mashed potato pancakes hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. You can also add other toppings such as diced bacon, shredded cheese, or a fried egg to make the dish more substantial.

Handy Tips

To ensure your pancakes hold their shape, make sure the mashed potato mixture is not too wet. If necessary, add a little more flour to achieve the right consistency.
Do not overcrowd the pan when frying the pancakes, as this can cause them to stick together. Fry in batches if necessary.
For an extra crispy exterior, you can chill the shaped patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when frying the mashed potato pancakes. The ideal temperature for the oil should be around medium to medium-high heat. If the heat is too high, the outside of the pancakes will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If the heat is too low, the pancakes will absorb too much oil and become greasy. The pancakes are done when they’re golden brown on both sides and feel firm to the touch. Adjust the heat as necessary to achieve the perfect fry.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor is key to making delicious mashed potato pancakes. The exterior should be crispy and golden, while the interior remains fluffy and tender. To achieve this, ensure that the oil is at the right temperature and do not overcrowd the pan. Also, do not flip the pancakes too many times, as this can prevent them from developing a nice crust. Finally, draining the pancakes on paper towels after frying helps remove excess oil and maintains their crunchiness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For a professional touch, garnish the pancakes with fresh herbs or edible flowers. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Consider using a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the perfect frying temperature, usually between 325°F and 375°F.
To make the dish more substantial, serve the mashed potato pancakes with a side of sour cream, applesauce, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Tips

Leftover mashed potato pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, the pancakes can be frozen after they’ve been shaped but before they’re fried. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry frozen pancakes straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
The best containers for storing mashed potato pancakes are airtight, moisture-proof containers to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting mashed potato pancakes, they can be packaged in a variety of creative ways. For a more rustic look, place the pancakes in a wicker basket lined with a checkered cloth. For a modern approach, use a sleek, airtight container and garnish with fresh herbs or a ribbon. Another idea is to package the pancakes in a jar, layered with sour cream and chives, making for a beautiful and delicious gift. Don’t forget to include a card with reheating instructions and serving suggestions.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Add some garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the potato mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
Creative toppings: In addition to sour cream and chives, consider topping your pancakes with diced onions, shredded cheese, bacon bits, or a fried egg.
Ingredient swaps: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter version, or add some grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your pancakes are too dense, you might have overmixed the potato mixture. If they’re too fragile, the mixture might be too wet.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have all-purpose flour, you can substitute it with cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture.
Over/undercooking signs: Overcooked pancakes will be dark brown and dry, while undercooked ones will be pale and soft. Adjust the frying time based on the size and thickness of your pancakes.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the mashed potato pancakes after they’ve been shaped but before they’re fried. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Is it gluten-free? The recipe as stated contains all-purpose flour, which has gluten. However, you can make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or gluten-free flour mix.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just ensure you have enough oil in the pan and fry the pancakes in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

Mashed potato pancakes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With their crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and the freshness of sour cream and chives on top, they make for a satisfying meal or snack. The recipe is easy to follow, and with a few handy tips and tricks, you can achieve professional-looking results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the dish your own. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, mashed potato pancakes are sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the delightful world of mashed potato pancakes!

Crispy Potato Sour Cream Mashed Pancakes