air fryer mashed potato pancakes

Mashed potato pancakes are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If you're a fan of crispy and golden brown pancakes, then you should definitely try making them in an air fryer. In this article, we'll take you through all the steps to create perfectly crispy and delicious air fryer mashed potato pancakes.

How to make perfectly crispy mashed potato pancakes in an air fryer

Making mashed potato pancakes in an air fryer is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. To make the perfect mashed potato pancakes in an air fryer, follow these steps:

• Firstly, peel and chop potatoes into small pieces. Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are soft. Drain the water and add butter and milk to the potatoes and mash them until they are smooth.
• Once the mashed potatoes have cooled to room temperature, add flour, beaten egg, salt and pepper to the mixture and combine everything until the texture is just right.
• Form small patties out of the mixture and place them in the air fryer’s basket. Ensure that you leave enough space between the patties so that they can cook evenly.
• Next, brush some olive oil on top of each pancake to give them that perfect golden brown color. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and then cook the pancakes for about 10 minutes until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Finally, remove the basket from the air fryer and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving hot and fresh pancakes.

There are a few tips and tricks that can help you make the best mashed potato pancakes in an air fryer. Firstly, make sure that the mashed potato mixture is not too wet or too dry. If it is too wet, the pancakes will not hold their shape and if it is too dry, they will be too dense. Secondly, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket as this can cause the pancakes to cook unevenly.

Another great thing about making mashed potato pancakes in an air fryer is that they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried potato pancakes. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, which means that you can achieve that crispy texture without the need for excess oil. This makes them a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake or trying to eat healthier.

The benefits of using an air fryer for cooking mashed potato pancakes

Air fryers are wonderful kitchen appliances that offer a large number of benefits for cooking. Some of the key benefits of using an air fryer include:

• Healthier cooking: Air fryers use less oil than traditional fryers to achieve a crispy texture, therefore, your dishes are less oily and healthier.
• Time-saving: The air fryer makes cooking quick and easy, and the cleanup afterwards is fast and effortless, too.
• Evenly cooked food: Air fryers ensure that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly, so no need to worry about undercooked potatoes.

When it comes to making mashed potato pancakes, air fryers are a game-changer. The hot air circulation in the air fryer ensures that the pancakes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Additionally, you can make a large batch of mashed potato pancakes in one go, without having to worry about flipping them over or monitoring them constantly. This makes it a great option for hosting dinner parties or feeding a large family.

Top recipes for making delicious air fryer mashed potato pancakes

There are many variations of mashed potato pancake recipes that can be made in an air fryer. Here are a couple of our favorites:

• Garlicky mashed potato pancakes: Add minced garlic and finely chopped green onions to the potato mixture before making patties. The resulting pancakes have a delicious garlic flavor that is sure to impress.
• Cheesy mashed potato pancakes: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mashed potato mixture along with the other ingredients. The cheese melts and becomes gooey during cooking, adding a delicious savory flavor and a crisp cheese crust.

If you're looking for a healthier option, try making mashed potato pancakes with sweet potatoes instead. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and have a natural sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors. Simply substitute the regular potatoes in your favorite recipe with mashed sweet potatoes.

For a more indulgent version, try adding crumbled bacon and chopped scallions to your mashed potato mixture. The salty bacon and fresh scallions add a burst of flavor to the pancakes, making them a perfect breakfast or brunch dish.

A beginner's guide to using an air fryer for cooking mashed potato pancakes

If you’re new to air frying, don’t worry. Cooking mashed potato pancakes in an air fryer is super easy, and there are just a few basic rules that you need to follow to make perfect pancakes every time. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Don’t overcrowd your air fryer: Even though the basket may look like it can fit a lot of food, it’s best to cook food in smaller batches as this way the air will circulate evenly and ensure that everything cooks well.
• Brush the patties with oil: Brushing the patties with oil will help to give them that crispy texture. Don’t use too much oil, though-- a little goes a long way.
• Preheat your air fryer: Preheating your appliance ensures even cooking and allows the pancakes to cook faster.

Another important tip to keep in mind is to make sure that your mashed potato mixture is not too wet. If the mixture is too wet, it will be difficult to form the patties and they may fall apart during cooking. To avoid this, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the mashed potatoes before forming the patties. You can also add a little bit of flour or breadcrumbs to the mixture to help absorb any excess moisture.

How to choose the right type of potatoes for making air fryer mashed potato pancakes

The type of potato that you use for making your pancakes can make a big difference in their taste and texture. Here are some varieties of potatoes that work best for making mashed potato pancakes:

• Russet potatoes: These potatoes are ideal for making mashed potatoes as they are starchy and light in texture. They will produce pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.
• Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes are a good alternative for those who want a creamier texture with a slightly richer flavor.
• Red potatoes: These potatoes can also be used to make pancakes, but they have a much denser texture, making their pancakes a bit firmer to the bite.

It's important to note that the age of the potato can also affect the outcome of your mashed potato pancakes. New potatoes, which are harvested early in the season, have a higher moisture content and will result in pancakes that are more delicate and tender. On the other hand, older potatoes, which have been stored for a longer period of time, have a lower moisture content and will produce pancakes that are denser and more firm. Consider the age of your potatoes when selecting the right type for your air fryer mashed potato pancakes.

Tips for seasoning and flavoring your air fryer mashed potato pancakes

Seasoning and flavoring your mashed potato pancakes is one of the simplest ways to experiment with this dish and make it unique to your taste. Here are a few tips:

• Herbs and spices: Mix and match different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, paprika, and cumin, to add flavor and complexity to your pancakes.
• Cheese: You can add grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese to the potatoes to give your pancakes a cheesy flavor.
• Vegetables: You can also add chopped onions, bell peppers, and other veggies to the mashed potato mixture for a delicious and nutritious pancake.

If you want to take your mashed potato pancakes to the next level, try incorporating some protein into the mix. You can add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or even shredded chicken to the mashed potatoes for a heartier pancake.

Another way to add some excitement to your mashed potato pancakes is by experimenting with different dipping sauces. You can try a classic sour cream and chive dip, a spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy BBQ sauce to complement the flavors of your pancakes.

How to store and reheat your leftover air fryer mashed potato pancakes

If you’re unable to finish all your pancakes, you can store the leftovers in an airtight container or Ziploc bag and refrigerate them for up to three days. To reheat and enjoy them, simply place them back into the air fryer or toast them in the oven until they are heated all the way through and crispy again.

It's important to note that when reheating your leftover mashed potato pancakes, you should avoid using the microwave. Microwaving can make the pancakes soggy and ruin their crispy texture. Instead, use the air fryer or oven method for the best results.

If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover pancakes, try topping them with some shredded cheese or bacon bits before reheating. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a side of gravy for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Creative ways to serve and garnish your air fryer mashed potato pancakes

There are many ways to enjoy your air fryer mashed potato pancakes, such as:

• Serving them with a side of scrambled eggs for a filling breakfast
• Garnishing them with crumbled bacon, green onions, and sour cream for a tasty appetizer
• Using them as a base for a delicious breakfast sandwich

The nutritional value of air fryer mashed potato pancakes compared to traditional ones

While mashed potato pancakes are generally a high-carb food, making them in an air fryer reduces the amount of oil that is used for frying, thus making them healthier. Additionally, since the recipe doesn’t usually use preservatives or artificial ingredients, the resulting pancakes usually contain fewer calories and less fat compared to traditional fried dishes.

In summary, air fryer mashed potato pancakes are an easy, healthy, and delicious option for any mealtime. With the tips and tricks learned from this article, you should be able to create perfectly crispy and flavorful pancakes every time.