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If you’re looking to elevate your comfort food game, look no further than Zesty Cheddar Jalapeño Mashed Potato Cakes. This dish artfully blends the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the spicy kick of jalapeños, creating a savory treat that is both satisfying and exciting. These mashed potato cakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect as a side dish, a snack, or even an appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress anyone at your table, whether you’re serving them at a casual family dinner or a festive celebration.

Zesty Cheddar Jalapeño Mashed Potato Cakes

Elevate your comfort food experience with Zesty Cheddar Jalapeño Mashed Potato Cakes. This delicious recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a spicy kick from jalapeños for a flavorful twist. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these cakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They're easy to customize and sure to impress at any gathering. Discover how to make this delightful dish that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover or freshly made)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped

1/2 cup green onions, chopped

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added smokiness)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and cilantro (if using). Mix well.

    Add Egg and Flour: Beat the egg lightly in a separate bowl, then add it to the potato mixture. Gradually fold in the flour until well combined. The mixture should hold together; add a little more flour if too wet.

      Season: Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed.

        Shape the Cakes: Dust your hands with flour, and then take a handful of the potato mixture and form it into a patty shape, about 1/2-inch thick. Continue shaping the rest until the mixture is used up, dusting with flour as needed to prevent sticking.

          Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture in — if it sizzles, it's time to fry!

            Fry the Cakes: Carefully add the potato cakes to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

              Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream or salsa.

                Enjoy!: These Zesty Cheddar Jalapeño Mashed Potato Cakes can be enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings