Name: Mashed Potato Pancakes with Cheddar, Scallions, and Fresh Parsley Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; ⅔ cup grated cheddar cheese; 3 scallions, chopped, plus more for garnish; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Pinch of cayenne pepper; ½ cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs, for coating; Avocado oil, for the pan; Sour cream, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 20 reviews

If you have leftover mashed potatoes and are wondering how to transform them into something truly irresistible, the Mashed Potato Pancakes with Cheddar, Scallions, and Fresh Parsley Recipe is your go-to dish. Crispy on the outside and delectably cheesy on the inside, these pancakes blend savory scallions and bright fresh parsley for a flavor-packed bite that elevates simple comfort food to something special. Whether for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe is a deliciously clever way to breathe new life into your mashed potatoes.

This image shows a white marbled surface with several ingredients arranged neatly. In the center bottom is a square glass container filled with mashed potatoes, with a silver measuring cup partially sunk into the mashed potatoes. To the right, there is a small glass bowl holding a raw egg yolk and some parsley lying next to it. Above that is a round white bowl filled with bright orange shredded cheddar cheese. To the left of the cheese is a bunch of fresh green onions placed diagonally. Further left, there are two white bowls, one filled with flour and the other with panko breadcrumbs. At the top right are two jars of seasonings, one with red paprika and the other with white pepper, both with red lids. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You'll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the perfect combination of crispy texture, cheesy goodness, and fresh herbal notes that make these pancakes so delicious.

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes: The base that brings moisture and creaminess to the pancakes.
⅔ cup grated cheddar cheese: Adds melty, sharp flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
3 scallions, chopped: Provides freshness and a mild onion punch.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Lifts and brightens the entire dish with a herbaceous touch.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the pancake mixture together.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
Pinch of cayenne pepper: Adds just a hint of gentle heat to balance the flavors.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and helps maintain the shape of the pancakes.
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a satisfyingly crispy coating on each pancake.
Avocado oil: Ideal for frying thanks to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Sour cream (for serving): A classic creamy dip that complements the crispy pancakes perfectly.

How to Make Mashed Potato Pancakes with Cheddar, Scallions, and Fresh Parsley Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by mixing your mashed potatoes, grated cheddar, chopped scallions, fresh parsley, egg, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne together in a large bowl. Once everything is evenly incorporated, add the flour and stir just until combined to keep the mixture tender and easy to handle. This blend is where the creaminess and savory flavors start to come alive.

Step 2: Form and Coat the Pancakes

Next, scoop the potato mixture using a ¼-cup measure and shape each scoop into thick patties. If the batter feels too sticky, just pop it into the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up. Once shaped, coat each patty thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs—this step is what guarantees that golden, crisp exterior you dream of in a pancake.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Heat your cast-iron skillet over medium heat with a generous layer of avocado oil. Fry the pancakes in batches, pressing each lightly with a spatula to ensure an even, golden crust. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until both are beautifully browned and the cheddar inside has melted into pure deliciousness.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

With the pancakes crispy and hot, garnish generously with more chopped scallions and serve alongside a dollop of cool sour cream. This final touch adds creamy tanginess that balances the crispy, cheesy pancakes in the most satisfying way.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Pancakes with Cheddar, Scallions, and Fresh Parsley Recipe

A clear glass bowl sitting on a white marbled surface contains a colorful mix of ingredients being stirred by a woman's hand holding a white spatula with a wooden handle. The mixture has two main visible layers: a creamy, light beige base and vibrant shredded orange pieces evenly distributed throughout. There are also chopped green herbs and small pieces of green vegetables spread throughout the mixture, giving a fresh, textured look. The bowl is held steady by a second woman's hand on the left side of the image. Nearby, there is a white bowl filled with white flour and a small container with a red lid partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra scallions is always welcome for a bit of crunch and freshness. You can also try a scattering of fresh parsley for an added herbaceous pop or a small spoonful of sour cream mixed with a hint of smoked paprika for extra zest.

Side Dishes

These pancakes pair beautifully with simple green salads to keep things light, or roasted vegetables for a comforting plate. They are also fantastic alongside smoky sausages or crispy bacon for a heartier meal, complementing the savory flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like reinventing your plating? Stack the pancakes with layers of crème fraîche and smoked salmon for an elegant brunch twist. Or create mini sliders by sandwiching the pancakes with deli meats and creamy spreads for flavorful bite-sized treats. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your fresh pancakes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and easy to reheat for a quick snack or meal.

Freezing

You can also freeze these pancakes for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making them perfect to have ready for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, return the pancakes to a hot skillet with a little oil and cook until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy and take away from that delightful crispness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftover mashed potatoes?

While this recipe shines using leftover mashed potatoes because of their texture and seasoning, you can definitely make mashed potatoes fresh and cool them before starting. Just ensure they’re not overly wet to maintain the right consistency for shaping.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

Cheddar adds great flavor, but you can use other cheeses like mozzarella for gooey stretchiness, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well and suits your taste preferences.

Is there a gluten-free option for the flour and breadcrumbs?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities without compromising texture and crunch.

How do I make sure the pancakes don’t fall apart while cooking?

Make sure your potato mixture is not too wet. Adding the flour helps bind the ingredients, and chilling the formed patties before cooking firms them up, making flipping easier and less messy.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the recipe?

Absolutely! Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or sweet corn could be mixed in for extra nutrition and texture. Fresh herbs like chives, dill, or cilantro also make excellent additions to customize the flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Cheddar, Scallions, and Fresh Parsley Recipe are a brilliant way to bring excitement to leftover mashed potatoes. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with fresh flavor, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your cast-iron skillet and get ready to enjoy a dish that makes every bite truly comforting and satisfying. You’re going to love how easy and delicious these pancakes are!

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Cheddar, Scallions, and Fresh Parsley Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need