Crispy Mashed Potato and Rice Patties: The Ultimate Leftover Makeover
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes and rice into a truly remarkable and flavorful side dish with these incredibly versatile **Mashed Potato and Rice Patties**. This recipe offers a delightful way to reduce food waste while creating a comforting and satisfying meal component. Whether you prefer them golden and crispy from a pan-fry or a bit lighter baked in the oven, these patties are designed to please. If you’ve ever pondered the delicious potential of **rice and mashed potatoes** together, prepare to be amazed by this simple, yet incredibly tasty, combination.
These savory patties are more than just a side dish; they can easily become the star of your meal. Their unique textureāsoft and creamy on the inside, with a beautiful crisp exteriorāmakes them a hit with both kids and adults. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, brunch, or even as an appetizer for gatherings. Plus, the convenience of using ingredients you likely already have on hand makes this recipe a true kitchen hero.
Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato and Rice Patties Recipe
- Eco-Friendly & Economical: A fantastic solution for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes and cooked rice, saving both food and money.
- Incredibly Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, appetizer, or even a breakfast accompaniment.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences with various seasonings and add-ins.
- Two Cooking Methods: Choose between a crispy pan-fry or a lighter oven-baked option.
- Kid-Friendly: Their appealing texture and mild flavor often make them a favorite among picky eaters.
š„ Essential Mashed Potato and Rice Patties Ingredients
Crafting these delicious patties requires just a few basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. The key to their success lies in starting with cold leftovers, which provides a firmer base for shaping.
- Ā½ cup Cold Leftover Mashed Potatoes: The colder your mashed potatoes, the better! Chilled potatoes hold their shape significantly better during mixing and cooking, preventing your patties from falling apart. Ensure they are seasoned to your liking from their original preparation.
- Ā¼ cup Cooked Leftover Rice, Chilled: Similar to the potatoes, cold rice adds structure and binds the patties without making them too wet. Any type of cooked rice (white, brown, jasmine, basmati) will work.
- 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour: This acts as a crucial binder, helping to absorb excess moisture and create a cohesive patty that won’t crumble. For a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used.
- 1 large Egg: The egg is another essential binding agent, contributing to the overall structure and helping the patties achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Ā½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements both potatoes and rice beautifully.
- Ā½ teaspoon Onion Powder: Provides a subtle, sweet onion note without the moisture or texture of fresh onion.
- Salt and Pepper, to taste: Seasoning is key! Adjust according to how well your initial mashed potatoes were seasoned.
- Cooking Oil Spray (for oven baked method): For a lighter option, a quick spray ensures even browning and prevents sticking when baking.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil and 1 tablespoon Butter (for stovetop method): This combination delivers an incredibly crispy exterior and a rich, golden color. The butter adds a fantastic nutty flavor. You can use all olive oil or another high-smoke-point oil if preferred.
A printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions can be found at the end of this post for your convenience.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Patties
Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving perfectly shaped and cooked patties:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
- 1Ā½-tablespoon Cookie Scoop: This is a game-changer for uniform patties, ensuring even cooking and consistent portions.
- Metal Spatula: Indispensable for easy flipping and flattening, especially when pan-frying to get that ideal crispy crust.
- Parchment Paper: For oven baking, it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cookie Sheet: The base for your parchment paper and patties when baking.
- Cast Iron Skillet: The ultimate choice for pan-frying, a cast iron skillet provides superior heat retention and distribution, leading to an exceptionally crispy, golden finish on your patties.
š Crafting Your Mashed Potato and Rice Patties: Step-by-Step Guide
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your chilled mashed potatoes, cooked rice, all-purpose flour, large egg, and all the specified seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Stir the mixture thoroughly using a sturdy spoon or a clean hand until all ingredients are uniformly combined and the mixture forms a cohesive, easy-to-handle dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher patties.
Choose your preferred cooking method for these versatile patties:
Oven Directions for Lighter Patties: Preheat your oven to a robust 425Ā°F (218Ā°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup. Using a 1Ā½-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out eight uniform patties onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking oil spray. Bake for 20 minutes. Halfway through the baking time (around 10 minutes), carefully flip each patty with a metal spatula and gently flatten them slightly to ensure even browning and crispiness. Spray the flipped side with cooking oil spray again. Continue baking until they are golden brown and heated through.
Stovetop Directions for Crispy Perfection: Melt the olive oil and butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Ensure the fat is shimmering but not smoking. Using your 1Ā½-tablespoon cookie scoop, gently place eight patties into the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for approximately 7 minutes on the first side, or until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Carefully flip each patty with a metal spatula and gently flatten them slightly. Cook for another 5ā7 minutes on the second side, or until both sides are deeply golden and crispy.
Once cooked to perfection, these savory patties are delightful on their own, offering a comforting blend of flavors and textures. For an extra touch of creaminess and tang, serve them with a dollop of sour cream, or explore other delicious serving suggestions outlined below. Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3ā4 days. For best results when reheating, use an air fryer or pan-fry them again to restore their crispiness.
What to Serve with Mashed Potato and Rice Patties
Potato rice patties are a versatile dish that pairs exceptionally well with a wide array of main courses and sauces. Their comforting nature makes them an excellent accompaniment to various proteins, such as succulent roasted beef, flaky grilled fish, tender baked chicken, or even my Ninja Foodi whole chicken. For a vegetarian meal, consider serving them alongside a hearty lentil soup or a vibrant mixed bean salad.
To elevate your meal further, explore these complementary options:
- Main Courses: Besides the suggestions above, they pair wonderfully with pork chops, sausages, or even a classic meatloaf.
- Sauces & Dips: A dollop of sour cream is a classic choice, but don’t stop there! Try a zesty Greek yogurt dip with fresh herbs, a spicy sriracha mayo, a rich mushroom gravy, or a sweet applesauce for a contrasting flavor profile. Fresh chives or green onions sprinkled on top add a lovely fresh touch.
- Vegetable Sides: Enhance your meal with vibrant vegetables. Simple microwaved vegetables like steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots are quick and healthy. For something more special, try these savory air fryer whole carrots, roasted asparagus, or sautƩed spinach with a hint of garlic.
- For Breakfast/Brunch: Top a warm patty with a fried egg and a sprinkle of hot sauce for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Watch How to Make It!
Mashed Potatoes and Rice Patties Recipe
Summer YuleIngredients
- Ā½ cup mashed potatoes (chilled; seasoned as you prefer)
- Ā¼ cup cooked rice (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 large egg
- Ā½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Ā½ teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
- cooking oil spray (for oven baked method)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter (for stovetop method)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, chilled cooked rice, all-purpose flour, large egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and holds together well.
- Oven Directions: Preheat your oven to 425Ā°F (218Ā°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a 1Ā½-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out eight patties onto the sheet. Spray generously with cooking oil spray. Bake for 20 minutes, carefully flipping and flattening the patties halfway through (at 10 minutes). Spray again after flipping to ensure maximum crispiness. Continue baking until golden brown.Stovetop Directions: In a cast iron skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, scoop eight patties into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip and gently flatten after the first 7 minutes, then cook for another 5ā7 minutes.
- Serve these delicious patties hot, either on their own or with a side of sour cream. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3ā4 days. For optimal crispness when reheating, use an air fryer or pan-fry them lightly.
Equipment
- Cookie Scoop
- Spatula
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Cast Iron Skillet
Notes
š Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). Potato and rice patties are an energizing side dish, providing a comforting blend of carbohydrates. They are relatively low in protein and fiber, meaning they might not keep you feeling full for extended periods. To make them more satiating, consider serving them alongside a protein-rich main dish or adding some finely chopped, protein-rich ingredients directly into the patty mixture, such as crumbled bacon bits or shredded cheese. It’s important to note that pan-frying adds a significant amount of fat and approximately 340 calories per serving compared to oven baking. If you are mindful of calorie intake or looking for a lighter option, the oven-baked method is highly recommended. It still yields a delicious result with a lovely crisp exterior, but with considerably less added fat. Nutrition information is for one serving of oven baked potato rice patties.Nutrition Info Disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information provided is an estimate offered as a courtesy. It may differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels can also vary, so please donāt obsess over the numbers too much; use them as a general guide.
āTo tasteā means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please donāt eat undercooked food. Your safety is paramount.
Nutrition
š Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use freshly made mashed potatoes and rice?
While possible, it’s highly recommended to use cold, leftover mashed potatoes and rice. The chilling process allows the starches to firm up, making the mixture much easier to handle and shape into patties. If you use warm ingredients, the patties may be too soft and prone to falling apart during cooking. If you must use fresh, cook them the day before and chill thoroughly, or try to cool them rapidly in the fridge before use.
Why are my potato and rice patties falling apart?
There are a few common reasons:
- Ingredients are too warm: Ensure both the mashed potatoes and rice are thoroughly chilled.
- Not enough binder: Make sure you’ve added the specified amount of flour and egg. These are crucial for holding the patties together.
- Overly wet mashed potatoes: If your mashed potatoes were particularly creamy or wet, they might have too much moisture. You can try adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the mixture to help absorb it.
- Overcrowding the pan: When pan-frying, overcrowding can drop the skillet’s temperature, leading to steaming rather than crisping, which can make the patties fragile.
Can I prepare these patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties, then store them uncooked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Lay them in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to cook, proceed with either the oven or stovetop method. You can also freeze uncooked patties for longer storage; flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
How do I reheat leftover potato rice patties?
For the best results and to regain that delightful crispiness, reheat your patties in an air fryer at 375Ā°F (190Ā°C) for 5-7 minutes, or pan-fry them lightly in a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy on the outside. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven at 350Ā°F (175Ā°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Can I add cheese or other ingredients to the patties?
Yes, this recipe is highly customizable! For extra flavor and richness, feel free to fold in about Ā¼ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan work well) into the mixture. You can also experiment with finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives, a pinch of paprika for color, or even a few finely diced bell peppers or corn kernels for added texture and sweetness. If adding moist ingredients, you might need an extra teaspoon of flour to maintain consistency.
Are these mashed potato and rice patties vegetarian or vegan?
As written, this recipe is vegetarian because it contains egg and butter. To make them vegan, you would need to use a flax egg or other vegan egg substitute, and replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative or additional olive oil.
š©āš³ Explore More Potato Recipes
If you love the versatility and comforting nature of potatoes, you’ll want to try these other fantastic recipes:
- Air Fryer Whole Baby Potatoes: Perfectly roasted, tender, and crispy baby potatoes made easy in your air fryer.
- Canned Potato Recipe: A quick and simple way to transform humble canned potatoes into a delicious side.
- How Long to Bake Potatoes at 375: Master the art of baking a perfect potato every time with precise timing.
- Air Fryer Potato Skins: Enjoy crispy, loaded potato skins as an appetizer or hearty snack.
- KFC Potato Bowl Recipe: Recreate this beloved comfort food classic in your own kitchen.
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