Kittencal’s Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties/Croquettes: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

There are some dishes that just feel like a warm hug, a culinary embrace that transports you back to simpler times. For me, Kittencal’s Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties are exactly that. I first encountered these little golden nuggets of joy on a chilly autumn evening, the kind where the wind whispers through the eaves and a steaming plate is the ultimate comfort. The aroma that filled the kitchen as they baked was intoxicating – a savory symphony of melted cheese, buttery potatoes, and a hint of fresh herbs. Each bite was a revelation: a perfectly crisp exterior giving way to a pillowy, cheesy interior. They quickly became a staple, a go-to for weeknight dinners and impromptu gatherings alike, always met with delighted sighs and requests for seconds.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 15 (estimated)
• Yield: Approximately 15 patties
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

To craft these delightful cheesy potato patties, you’ll need the following:

• 3 large russet potatoes (or 4 medium-sized ones)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1-2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt (or adjust to your taste) OR 1 teaspoon white salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but recommended for an extra layer of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a wonderful nutty depth)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (this forms our deliciously buttery coating)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Potato masher or fork
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Creating these irresistible potato patties is a straightforward yet rewarding process. Here’s how to bring them to life:

1. Begin by preparing your potatoes. Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes.
2. Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain all the water from the pot. Transfer the hot potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
3. Using a potato masher or a sturdy fork, mash the potatoes until they are fluffy and smooth. It’s important to achieve a good texture here, as it will directly impact the final consistency of your patties.
4. Now, it’s time to build the flavor! Add the shredded cheddar cheese, cubed butter, finely chopped green onions, and chopped fresh parsley to the mashed potatoes.
5. Next, incorporate the seasonings: seasoning salt (or white salt), black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder. If you’re opting for the Parmesan cheese, add it now as well.
6. Mix all these ingredients together very well to ensure they are thoroughly combined. This is also your opportunity to adjust all seasonings to taste. Give it a small taste (carefully, it will be warm!) and add more salt, pepper, or any other spice as your palate desires.
7. Allow the mashed potato mixture to cool slightly. This is crucial to prevent the egg from scrambling when you add it.
8. Once the mixture has cooled to a manageable temperature, mix in the lightly beaten egg. Combine everything until the egg is fully incorporated into the potato mixture.
9. At this stage, you have a few options. If you’re not ready to shape and bake immediately, you may refrigerate the mashed potato mixture for 1-2 hours. This allows it to firm up, making it easier to handle. You can even prepare this mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated.
10. When you’re ready to proceed, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
11. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easier cleanup, if desired.
12. Take about 3 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture and shape it into a ball in your hands.
13. Place the ball into the crushed Ritz crackers, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides.
14. Then, place the coated ball onto the prepared baking sheet.
15. Using your hands, press down gently on the ball to flatten it slightly, creating a patty or croquette shape.
16. Repeat steps 12-15 with the remaining mashed potato mixture until all the mixture has been formed into patties and coated in cracker crumbs.
17. Arrange the patties on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
18. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and wonderfully crisp on the outside.

Expert Tips & Tricks

The beauty of Kittencal’s Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties lies in their simplicity, but a few chef’s touches can elevate them further. For the crispiest exterior, ensure your Ritz crackers are finely crushed. You can achieve this by pulsing them in a food processor or placing them in a sealed bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. If you don’t have Ritz crackers, Panko breadcrumbs are a good substitute, though they will offer a slightly different, less buttery flavor profile. When mashing your potatoes, avoid overworking them, which can lead to a gummy texture. A fluffy mash will ensure light and airy patties. For an extra layer of richness and a beautiful golden hue, you can add a small knob of butter on top of each patty before baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties are incredibly versatile and can be served as a delightful appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or even a light main course. They are best served warm, straight from the oven, when the cheese is molten and the crust is at its crispiest. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of elegance.

For storage, allow any leftover patties to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is re-crisped. Freezing is also an option; freeze the cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	151.2 kcal
Calories from Fat		76 g
Total Fat	8.5 g	13%
Saturated Fat	5.2 g	26%
Cholesterol	38 mg	12%
Sodium	125.3 mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	13.5 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1.7 g	6%
Sugars	0.8 g	3%
Protein	5.8 g	11%

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic rendition with cheddar cheese and Ritz crackers is divine, feel free to experiment! For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor profile, you can omit the cayenne altogether. For a different cheesy profile, try substituting some of the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure you use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the coating.

FAQs

Q: What type of potatoes are best for these patties?
A: Russet potatoes are ideal because their starchy nature yields a fluffy mash, which is perfect for creating well-formed and tender patties.

Q: Can I make the mashed potato mixture ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. This actually makes it easier to shape the patties when you’re ready to bake.

Q: How do I prevent the patties from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is the easiest way to prevent sticking. You can also lightly grease the baking sheet with oil or cooking spray.

Q: Can I fry these instead of baking them?
A: While the recipe is designed for baking, you could pan-fry them in a shallow layer of oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. This will result in a crispier exterior but will also increase the fat content.

Q: How can I make these patties spicier?
A: To add more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the potato mixture, or even incorporate some finely diced jalapeño pepper for a fresher, more pungent heat.

Final Thoughts

Kittencal’s Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Patties are more than just a recipe; they are a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something truly special. Their comforting nature and crowd-pleasing flavor make them a perfect addition to any table, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply seeking a delightful meal for yourself. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal, or as a decadent side dish to roasted chicken or a hearty stew. I encourage you to try this recipe, embrace its comforting simplicity, and discover the joy it brings to your own kitchen. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and any delightful twists you discover along the way!