My Dad’s Potato Pancakes were one of my favorite special breakfasts growing up! With fewer than 5 ingredients, they’re simple to make and taste delicious!
My dad almost never cooked. When he did, it was rare — usually just to grab a drink. But on the rare occasions he made a meal, there were two dishes he always prepared: Hamburger Macaroni & Cheese and Potato Pancakes. Both became family favorites, and I’ve continued the tradition by making them for Mike and others.
As a child, I spent weekends with my dad and he’d make fried potato pancakes for breakfast. They were the highlight of those visits and remain the most vivid cooking memory I have of him. These simple pancakes feel extra special because my mom didn’t make them — they were my dad’s signature.
Have leftover mashed potatoes after a holiday like Thanksgiving? This recipe is perfect for turning them into a new meal. I sometimes make extra mashed potatoes on purpose just so I can make these pancakes later. They’re quick, satisfying, and use minimal ingredients.
Dad’s Potato Pancakes
Julie Kotzbach
Pin Recipe
5
10
15
9 pancakes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- Seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s), to taste
Instructions
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Heat the vegetable oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
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In a bowl combine the cold mashed potatoes and flour. Use the back of a spoon to press and mash the flour into the potatoes until fully incorporated. The mixture should become slightly dough-like; you should still taste a hint of flour so the patties hold together.
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Take a palm-sized portion of the potato mixture, roll it into a ball, then flatten it gently into a patty. Carefully place the patty into the hot oil.
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Repeat with the remaining potato mixture, leaving space in the pan so the pancakes fry evenly.
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Cook until golden brown, about 3–5 minutes per side, flipping carefully so they keep their shape.
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Transfer the cooked pancakes to paper towels to drain. While still hot, sprinkle with seasoned salt to taste. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Potassium: 0 mg
Vitamin A: 0 IU
Vitamin C: 0 mg
Calcium: 0 mg
Iron: 0 mg
All nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on brands, measuring methods, and portion sizes.
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