Colcannon cheddar skillet cakes are the perfect way to transform leftover colcannon into something golden, crispy, and irresistibly savory. These Irish-inspired potato cakes are pan-fried until crisp on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, featuring sharp cheddar, green onions, and a buttery finish. Whether served for breakfast, as a side dish, or a light appetizer, these skillet cakes are hearty, comforting, and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a creative and delicious use for leftover mashed potatoes or colcannon. The addition of sharp cheddar and green onions enhances the flavor and texture, while pan-frying creates a perfectly crisp exterior. These skillet cakes are quick to prepare, require only a handful of simple ingredients, and are versatile enough for any meal. Serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream or an extra pat of butter for ultimate comfort food satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover colcannon works best)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes (preferably colcannon), flour, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and a soft, dough-like consistency forms.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and gently shape into a patty.
- Place the patty in the skillet and repeat with the remaining mixture, leaving space between each cake.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess butter.
- Serve warm with sour cream, extra butter, or your favorite dip.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add Bacon: Stir in chopped cooked bacon for added smokiness and crunch.
- Herb Upgrade: Add fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a bright touch.
- Spicy Version: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño for heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Mini Cakes: Form into smaller patties for bite-sized appetizers or party snacks.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C). These skillet cakes are not ideal for freezing due to the change in texture after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use plain mashed potatoes instead of colcannon?
Yes, plain mashed potatoes work well. You may want to add a bit of finely sautéed cabbage or kale to mimic traditional colcannon flavor.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor, but you can also try Irish cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What do I serve with these cakes?
They pair well with sour cream, applesauce, or even a poached egg for breakfast.
How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure your mashed potatoes aren’t too loose and that the egg is thoroughly mixed in to help bind the mixture.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the mixture can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated. Shape and cook when ready.
Do I need to add more salt if using salted butter?
Taste the mixture before cooking. If using salted butter, you may want to reduce the added salt slightly.
Can I make them without egg?
The egg helps bind the mixture, but you can use a flax egg or omit it if the mixture holds together well on its own.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, shape the patties and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they reheat well and can be served as a quick side dish or snack throughout the week.
Conclusion
Colcannon cheddar skillet cakes are a comforting and clever way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes with a crispy twist. Rich with flavor from sharp cheddar and green onions, these golden patties are simple, satisfying, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you serve them for breakfast, lunch, or as a hearty appetizer, these Irish-inspired cakes are sure to become a new favorite at your table.
Colcannon Cheddar Skillet Cakes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Colcannon Cheddar Skillet Cakes are golden, crispy, and irresistibly cheesy. Made with leftover colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes with cabbage), sharp cheddar, and green onions, these pan-fried potato cakes are a delicious way to repurpose leftovers or create a comforting side, snack, or breakfast treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover colcannon works best)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, cheddar cheese, green onions, egg, salt, and black pepper until a dough-like consistency forms.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and shape into a patty. Place in the skillet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Cook each patty for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and serve warm with sour cream or an extra pat of butter.
Notes
- Works great with traditional or flavored mashed potatoes.
- Add crumbled bacon or herbs for extra flavor.
- Can be made ahead and reheated in a skillet or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Snack, Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Irish-Inspired, Comfort Food
