Here’s a crispy, golden, delicious Air-Fried Potato Cakes recipe—perfect for breakfast, sides, or snacks! They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and you can make them with leftover mashed potatoes or freshly cooked ones.
Air-Fried Potato Cakes
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or fresh, cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is great)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup flour (or 1/2 cup breadcrumbs)
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Oil spray (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions
1. Prep the potato mixture
In a bowl, combine:
- Mashed potatoes
- Cheese
- Egg
- Flour or breadcrumbs
- Green onions
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt & pepper
Mix until a soft dough-like mixture forms.
If too sticky → add a little more flour.
If too dry → add a tablespoon of milk.
2. Shape the cakes
Scoop out handfuls and form patties about ½–¾ inch thick.
Place them on a parchment-lined plate.
3. Preheat the air fryer
Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes.
4. Air-fry
Spray potato cakes lightly with oil (optional but makes them crispier).
Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Cook until:
- Golden
- Crisp on the outside
- Heated through
5. Serve
Serve hot with:
- Sour cream
- Ranch
- Ketchup
- Garlic aioli
- Chive sour cream dip
Variations
✨ Cheesy center: Add a cube of mozzarella inside each cake.
✨ Loaded potato cakes: Add bacon bits + cheddar + chives.
✨ Herb version: Add dill, parsley, or thyme.
✨ Spicy: Add paprika, Cajun seasoning, or diced jalapeños.
✨ Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs.
If you want, I can also give you air-fried mashed potato balls, hash brown patties, or crispy air-fried smashed potatoes!
