Potato Cake With Cheese – Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Easy

When it comes to satisfying comfort food that’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing, nothing beats a potato cake with cheese. This recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes, rich melty cheese, and a golden crispy crust to create a side dish—or main course—that’s simple yet indulgent. Whether you’re whipping these up for a weeknight dinner or need an idea to use leftover mashed potatoes, these potato cakes are the solution.

Perfect as part of your dinner ideas easy potato lineup, these cakes are not only filling but also versatile. They work great as a potato recipe main dish, but you can also stuff them for an even more exciting meal. Whether served plain or filled, they are irresistibly good.

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What Is a Potato Cake With Cheese?

A potato cake with cheese is exactly what it sounds like—a flavorful patty made from mashed potatoes, mixed or stuffed with cheese, and then fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These cakes are a staple in many households across the UK and beyond, loved for their simplicity and flexibility.

Some versions resemble cheesy stuffed potato cakes, while others keep it classic with cheese mixed right into the potato base. They can be pan-fried or baked, and are easy to shape by hand. While traditionally made with plain mashed potatoes, this version adds bold cheesy richness and a golden crust, elevating it to an exciting and satisfying dish.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and comfort. First, it’s ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Second, it requires only a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. But perhaps most importantly, it’s endlessly customizable—you can serve it plain or stuffed, as a side or a main.

Additionally, this is a perfect example of easy UK recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Kids love them, adults crave them, and they pair with just about anything on your dinner table.

Here’s why it works so well:

• Quick to prepare – From prep to plate in about 30 minutes.
• Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Versatile – Great with add-ins or on its own.
• Comforting – Crispy outside, soft and cheesy inside.
• Freezer-friendly – Make a batch and save some for later!

Ingredient List

To make your own batch of crispy potato cakes with cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups (about 700g) mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 1/4 cups (150g) grated cheddar cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
• 1/4 cup (30g) plain flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped spring onions or chives (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2–3 tablespoons oil for frying

Optional fillings and variations:

• Cooked ground beef or shredded chicken
• Cooked vegetables (peas, spinach, or bell peppers)
• Mozzarella cubes or garlic herb cheese for stuffed mashed potatoes recipes

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have these tools on hand:

• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan or skillet
• Spatula or slotted turner
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Shallow dish for flour (dusting)
• Plate lined with paper towel for draining

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the base mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, grated cheese, flour, egg, and optional herbs. Mix until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Shape the cakes: Scoop a portion of the mixture and form it into a patty about 1 inch thick. If adding a filling, flatten half the mixture into a disc, place your filling in the center, and top with more mixture, sealing the edges.
3. Dust with flour: Lightly coat each potato cake in flour to help them crisp up during frying.
4. Heat oil: Add a thin layer of oil to a skillet and heat over medium heat.
5. Fry the cakes: Cook the potato cakes in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
6. Drain and serve: Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side.

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Tips for the Crispiest Potato Cakes

To make sure your fried potatoes dinner ideas turn out perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, try these helpful tips:

• Use cold mashed potatoes: They’re easier to shape and hold together better when frying.
• Don’t skip the flour dusting: It gives the outside that irresistible crunch.
• Preheat your pan properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, your cakes will soak it up and become soggy.
• Avoid over-flipping: Let them cook undisturbed to form a crust before turning.

With just a bit of attention, you’ll have beautifully golden potato cakes every time.

Filling Variations

Want to turn these into stuffed potato cakes recipe masterpieces? Here are a few delicious ideas:

• Beef stuffed potato cakes: Add seasoned cooked minced beef and a sprinkle of cheese inside each patty.
• Vegetarian options: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions as a filling.
• Cheesy stuffed potato cakes: Place a cube of mozzarella or cream cheese in the center of each cake before shaping.
• Spiced versions: Add curry powder or smoked paprika to the potato mixture for extra flavor.

The beauty of this recipe is that it works as a blank canvas for whatever you love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is a simple recipe, a few mistakes can affect the final texture:

• Too much moisture in the potatoes: If your mash is too wet, add extra flour to help bind it.
• Undercooked centers: Don’t make the cakes too thick unless you’re baking them instead of frying.
• Using too much oil: Shallow frying works best. Too much oil can make them greasy.
• Skipping resting time: If you chill the shaped cakes for 10 minutes before frying, they hold together better.

By keeping these in mind, you’ll ensure a perfect batch every time.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough to serve as a potato recipe main dish or as a flavorful side. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With a fresh green salad for a light, balanced dinner
• Alongside grilled chicken or sausages
• As a side to a warm soup like tomato or leek and potato
• With sour cream or garlic yogurt sauce
• Topped with a fried egg for a brunch-inspired twist

Whether served casually or dressed up for guests, they’re always a hit.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store: Let the potato cakes cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Place in a hot skillet with a touch of oil for 2–3 minutes per side, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the crispy crust.

To freeze: Lay uncooked or cooked cakes on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Cook from frozen or thaw first—both work well!

Drink and Sauce Pairings

To elevate your cheesy potato cakes, consider pairing them with:

• Mint yogurt dip
• Spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo
• Classic garlic aioli
• Cucumber lemonade or sparkling apple cider for refreshing, alcohol-free beverages

These additions make them even more enjoyable and can complement any occasion.

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FAQ About Potato Cakes With Cheese

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, as long as they’re thick and not too watery. Chill before forming the cakes.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway.

What cheese is best?
Cheddar is ideal, but you can try mozzarella, feta, or a cheese blend for variation.

Are they gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour for coating, and ensure all your ingredients are certified GF.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prep and shape the cakes, then chill or freeze until ready to cook.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning dinner ideas with easy potatoes or looking to turn leftovers into a main event, this Potato Cake With Cheese recipe is your golden ticket. It’s satisfying, simple, and endlessly adaptable. Plus, the crispy crust and melty center are just too good to resist.

So don’t wait—grab your leftover mash and favorite cheese, and get cooking. If you love this recipe, share it with your fellow food lovers, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more stuffed mashed potatoes recipes, easy UK recipes, and comforting meals everyone will enjoy!

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