Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Mashed Potato Cakes
If you’re looking for a delicious way to use leftover mashed potatoes, these Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Mashed Potato Cakes are the perfect solution. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and packed with rich flavors from garlic and parmesan cheese.
Cooking them in the air fryer gives the potato cakes a beautiful golden crust without needing much oil. The result is a satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal.
For an extra indulgent touch, top each cake with a dollop of sour cream, crispy bacon crumbles, and fresh scallions or parsley. The combination turns these simple potato cakes into a loaded mashed potato experience that everyone will love.
These potato cakes are also incredibly quick to make. With only 15 minutes total time, they’re ideal for busy weeknights or as a tasty appetizer for gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect way to use leftover mashed potatoes
- Crispy texture thanks to the air fryer
- Packed with garlic and cheesy parmesan flavor
- Quick and easy — ready in 15 minutes
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and seasonings
Tips for the Best Potato Cakes
1. Use thick mashed potatoes
The mashed potatoes should not be too runny. If they are loose or watery, simply add a little extra flour to thicken the mixture.
2. Cold mashed potatoes work best
For the best texture, use mashed potatoes that have been refrigerated for a few hours or overnight.
3. Fresh mashed potatoes are better
While boxed mashed potatoes can work, homemade mashed potatoes give the best flavor and texture.
4. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer
Leave space between the patties so they crisp up properly.
Recipe Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 7 minutes |
| Cook Time | 8 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Ingredients
For the Potato Cakes
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (not runny)
- 1 egg
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced (or garlic powder)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or flour of choice)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or seasoning of choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Coating
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
Optional Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or dill
- Sour cream
- Bacon crumbles
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and flour. Mix until everything is well combined and forms a thick mixture.
2. Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, mix together the ½ cup parmesan cheese and ½ cup breadcrumbs.
3. Form the Patties
Divide the potato mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ½ to ¾ inch thick.
Roll each patty in the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
5. Air Fry the Potato Cakes
Place the patties in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Cook 4 minutes per side, spraying lightly with oil after flipping, until the cakes are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve
Let the potato cakes cool for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley, sour cream, bacon crumbles, and scallions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 271 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 181 mg |
| Sodium | 910 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Protein | 16 g |
