Mashed Potato Cakes with Bacon (Print Version)

Crispy potato cakes with bacon and cheddar, finished with sour cream and chives for a comforting bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Potato Cakes

01 - 5 slices bacon, finely diced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup diced sweet onion
04 - 1/2 cup diced celery
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 1/4 cups cold mashed potatoes
07 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
09 - 1 large egg, beaten
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 - Hot sauce, to taste
13 - 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or avocado oil)

→ For Serving

14 - Sour cream
15 - Fresh chives, minced
16 - Reserved crispy bacon

# Steps:

01 - Cook finely diced bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crispy. Transfer the bacon to a large mixing bowl, reserving a portion for garnish.
02 - In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced sweet onion and celery; cook for 5 minutes or until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant. Transfer mixture to the bowl with cooked bacon.
03 - Add mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, flour, beaten egg, mustard, black pepper, and desired amount of hot sauce to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until combined.
04 - Form the mixture into 8 uniform patties, each 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Place on a lightly greased plate, cover, and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm.
05 - Heat neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry patties in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden and crisp. Transfer to a serving plate.
06 - Top each potato cake with a spoonful of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh minced chives, and reserved crispy bacon. Serve immediately while hot.

# Notes:

01 - It is essential to use cold, leftover mashed potatoes for best texture and to prevent the cakes from falling apart while frying.