Air-Fried Potato Cakes, and they instantly became a family favorite. It all started when my mom suggested using leftover mashed potatoes instead of letting them go to waste. She used to make pan-fried potato patties when I was younger, and I wanted to recreate that comforting memory—but with less oil and less mess.

It had been a long stressful week, and I was craving something crispy and comforting. Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed, I usually turn to easy air fryer recipes because they save time and cleanup. Sunday afternoon felt like the perfect moment to experiment while my family was home relaxing.

As I mixed the potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, my kids kept asking if I was making hash browns. Once the potato cakes started crisping up in the air fryer, the smell had everyone waiting in the kitchen. My husband grabbed the first one straight from the basket and immediately asked me to make another batch.

They came out perfectly crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and disappeared faster than I expected. Now I make these whenever I have leftover mashed potatoes or need a quick snack that makes everyone happy.

🥔 Air-Fried Potato Cakes

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

12 minutes

Total Time:

27 minutes

Servings:

8 potato cakes

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Mix ingredients

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Form patties

Shape mixture into small round cakes.

Step 3: Prep air fryer

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Step 4: Spray

Lightly spray potato cakes with cooking spray.

Step 5: Air fry

Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with sour cream, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition (Per Potato Cake Approx.)

• Calories: 145
• Carbs: 16g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g

Q&A

Can I use fresh potatoes?

Yes, just boil and mash them first.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze before or after cooking.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Why are my cakes falling apart?

Add extra breadcrumbs if mixture is too soft.

What dips go well?

Ranch, sour cream, ketchup, or spicy mayo.