Potato pancakes are a fantastic way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious and satisfying dish.
These crispy, golden-brown treats are easy to make, gluten-free, and cooked in the air fryer for a healthier twist on the traditional recipe.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack, a side dish, or even a light meal, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s efficient, helping you make the most of your leftover mashed potatoes while minimizing food waste.
It’s also quick and easy to prepare, with the air fryer eliminating the hassle of traditional frying.
Plus, the recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite seasonings or toppings to suit your taste.
Best of all, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a simple yet satisfying option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (make sure they’re cold for easier handling)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour (for a low-carb option)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mixture
Start by combining the cold mashed potatoes, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything thoroughly until you achieve a consistent dough-like texture. If the mixture feels too sticky, add a little more breadcrumbs or almond flour, one tablespoon at a time.
2. Shape the Pancakes
Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 2–3 tablespoons each) and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball gently into a patty, ensuring they’re about half an inch thick.
Uniform thickness helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3–5 minutes. This step ensures the pancakes start cooking immediately when placed inside, resulting in a crispier texture.
4. Arrange and Cook
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the potato pancakes in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation.
Cook the pancakes for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They’re ready when both sides are golden brown and crispy.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove the pancakes from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, applesauce, or spicy aioli.
Tips for Success
- Chill the Mixture: Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better and make forming the pancakes easier.
- Customize the Flavors: Add shredded cheese, diced cooked bacon, or chopped green onions to the mixture for a unique twist.
- Reheat Leftovers: Warm leftover pancakes in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
- Batch Cooking: If you have more pancakes than can fit in one batch, cook them in multiple rounds. Keep the cooked ones warm in a low oven.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Traditional frying methods often require more oil, which can make the pancakes greasy and calorie-dense.
The air fryer provides the same crispy results with minimal oil, making this recipe a healthier option.
Plus, it reduces cleanup time, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Potato pancakes are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and smoked salmon.
- Lunch: Pair with a fresh salad or a bowl of tomato soup.
- Dinner: Use as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
- Snack: Enjoy as a standalone treat with your favorite dip.
Storing and Freezing
To store leftover potato pancakes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, lay the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat frozen pancakes directly in the air fryer or oven for the best results.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Potato Pancakes: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy center.
- Vegan Potato Pancakes: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg and use dairy-free cheese.
- Spicy Potato Pancakes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Conclusion
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can turn leftover mashed potatoes into a dish that everyone will love.
These air fryer potato pancakes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe proves that leftovers can become a culinary masterpiece.
