Irresistible Mashed Potato Fritters: Crispy Golden Perfection from Leftovers
Mashed Potato Fritters are a culinary delight, offering a tantalizing contrast of textures and flavors. Imagine a perfectly tender and creamy interior, enveloped in a beautifully crunchy and crispy exterior. These savory potato cakes are not just incredibly delicious; they are also the ultimate comfort food, ideal for any day of the week. Best of all, they provide a fantastic solution for utilizing any leftover mashed potatoes you might have lingering in your refrigerator, transforming them into something truly special. Serve these golden-brown beauties topped with a dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives, either as a delightful side dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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About These Delicious Mashed Potato Fritters
There’s something truly magical about potatoes, and these mashed potato fritters elevate them to a whole new level of comfort food perfection. Imagine a golden-brown exterior that crackles with every bite, revealing a luxuriously soft and creamy interior. This delightful texture contrast is precisely what makes these potato fritters my absolute favorite way to savor the humble potato.
As a potato enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated spuds in every form – be it fried, baked, steamed, or mashed. But these fritters hold a special place in my culinary heart. They represent the best of both worlds, marrying the comforting crunch reminiscent of potato latkes with the rich, smooth creaminess only mashed potatoes can provide. It’s a harmonious blend of familiar flavors and textures that truly satisfies.
While potato fritters, also affectionately known as potato pancakes, share some flavor notes with their grated potato counterparts, the key difference lies in their distinct texture and the incredible ease of preparation. Crafted from a simple mixture of pre-made mashed potatoes, savory cheese, a binding egg, a touch of flour, and fresh aromatic herbs like green onion and chives, these fritters come together quickly. Just form them into neat patties, pan-fry them until they’re beautifully golden, and serve them warm with your preferred toppings. They are incredibly versatile, making them a superb accompaniment to a variety of main courses such as chicken, pork, or steak. Alternatively, they shine as a delightful appetizer or a satisfying snack, especially when shaped into smaller, bite-sized portions.
The Difference Between Potato Fritters and Potato Latkes
While both are beloved potato dishes, there’s a significant distinction between mashed potato fritters (or potato pancakes) and traditional potato latkes. The potato fritters you see in this recipe are remarkably straightforward to make, requiring minimal preparation time. They celebrate the smooth, velvety texture of already-mashed potatoes, creating a quick and easy savory treat.
In contrast, potato latkes are typically more labor-intensive. Their preparation involves grating raw potatoes, which is a time-consuming step on its own. After grating, it’s crucial to painstakingly squeeze out all the excess moisture from the shredded potatoes to ensure a crisp latke. I have vivid childhood memories of being assigned the task of drying out grated potatoes – a task that often left my wrists aching!
For me, the most prominent difference truly lies in the texture. Mashed potato fritters boast a fluffy, almost pillowy interior, offering a delightful contrast to their crispy shell. This fluffiness comes from the mashed potato base, which is often enriched with cream, butter, and seasonings. Potato latkes, on the other hand, highlight the pure, rustic texture of the grated potato, providing a more distinct potato “shred” bite rather than the smooth consistency found in fritters. While both are incredibly delicious, the fritter offers a creamier, softer center due to its mashed potato foundation, making it a distinctly different and equally appealing dish.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Fritters
Crafting the perfect batch of mashed potato fritters requires a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that desirable crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside texture and incredible flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Mashed Potatoes: This is the star of the show! It’s important to use actual creamy mashed potatoes, whether they are delicious leftovers from a previous meal or prepared specifically for this recipe. We’re talking about potatoes that have been cooked and then generously mixed with butter, cream, and seasonings. Simply boiled and smashed potatoes won’t yield the same rich flavor and smooth texture needed for these fritters.
- Cheese: For a sharp and savory kick, sharp cheddar cheese is highly recommended. Its robust flavor stands up beautifully. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist, or colby jack for a milder, creamier melt.
- Green Onion: Freshly chopped green onion adds a delightful pungency and a subtle bite that complements the richness of the potato and cheese. It brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Chives: For an additional layer of fresh, delicate onion flavor, freshly chopped chives are essential. While dried chives can be used in a pinch, fresh chives provide a superior aromatic quality and vibrant green flecks.
- Egg: A large egg acts as a crucial binder, holding all the ingredients together and preventing the fritters from falling apart during frying. It also contributes to the tender interior texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: This ingredient serves two purposes: a portion is mixed into the potato base to provide structure, and the remaining portion is used for dredging. This light coating of flour is key to achieving that irresistibly crispy exterior. If you need a gluten-free option, a 1:1 ratio gluten-free flour blend works perfectly as a substitute.
- Oil for Frying: Canola oil is preferred due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it excellent for frying. Extra virgin olive oil can also be used, but choose a lighter one to avoid overpowering the potato flavor.
- For Serving: The classic pairing is a dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives, which offer a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, savory fritters. For a sweet and savory experience, applesauce is also a fantastic and traditional option, reminiscent of serving latkes.
Must-Have Kitchen Equipment
While this recipe for mashed potato fritters is wonderfully straightforward, having the right tools on hand will make the preparation process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to gather from your kitchen:
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly without making a mess. You’ll want enough room to comfortably fold in the mashed potatoes, cheese, herbs, egg, and flour.
- Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula: To mix the potato mixture until it’s well combined and evenly distributed, a strong wooden spoon or a robust spatula is ideal. These tools allow you to incorporate the ingredients effectively without overworking the mashed potatoes, which could lead to a gummy texture.
- Nonstick Skillet or Cast Iron Skillet: This is perhaps the most critical piece of equipment for frying your fritters to golden perfection. A high-quality nonstick skillet will ensure that your fritters don’t stick to the bottom, making them easy to flip and ensuring a beautifully crisp crust. Alternatively, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is an excellent choice, known for its even heat distribution and ability to create a fantastic sear, contributing to that irresistible crunch. Avoid using stainless steel pans, as they are more prone to sticking when frying delicate items like fritters.
- Shallow Plate or Bowl for Dredging: You’ll need a flat, wide plate or a shallow bowl to hold the flour for coating your potato patties. This makes it easy to dredge each side of the fritters evenly before frying.
- Paper Towel-Lined Plate: After frying, you’ll want a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil from the fritters. This step is crucial for maintaining their crispiness and preventing them from becoming greasy.
How to Make Crispy Mashed Potato Fritters
Making these delicious mashed potato fritters is a simple and rewarding process that transforms humble leftovers into a gourmet treat. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy, golden-brown delights:
Prepare the Potato Mixture
Begin by taking a large mixing bowl and adding your prepared mashed potatoes. Ensure these are creamy, seasoned mashed potatoes, not just plain cooked and mashed spuds. To the bowl, add the shredded cheese, freshly chopped green onion, aromatic chives, and the lightly beaten egg. Finally, incorporate 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula, gently stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. It’s important not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture. Remember, if your mashed potatoes were already seasoned well, you likely won’t need to add additional salt and pepper to this mixture. However, if your potatoes started bland, now is the time to add about 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to your taste.
Form the Patties
Grab a shallow plate or bowl and spread the remaining 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour on it. Lightly season this flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. This seasoned flour will create a flavorful, crispy crust. Now, divide your potato mixture into 12 equal portions. A good way to do this is to roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten it between your palms to create a patty that is approximately 1/2-inch thick. The goal is to create uniform patties for even cooking. Once formed, carefully dredge each patty in the seasoned flour on both sides, making sure it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour to ensure a thin, even layer. Place the dredged patties on a clean plate, ready for frying.
Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about 1/4 inch of canola oil (or your preferred frying oil) in a large nonstick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet over medium to medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small sprinkle of flour sizzles upon contact. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato patties to the skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much, which can lead to soggy fritters. Allow each side to cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until it reaches a beautiful, deep golden-brown color and has a crispy texture. It’s crucial not to flip the fritters prematurely; resist the urge to touch them for at least 3 minutes on the first side to allow a solid crust to form. Flipping too soon can cause them to stick or break apart. Once golden on one side, carefully flip and cook the other side until it’s equally crispy and golden. As each batch finishes cooking, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, and immediately sprinkle them with a pinch of flaky salt for enhanced flavor. Serve these warm, crispy mashed potato fritters with your favorite accompaniments like sour cream and fresh chives, or a side of applesauce.
Expert Tips and Tricks for Mashed Potato Fritters
Achieving perfectly crispy and delicious mashed potato fritters is easy with a few expert tips. These insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your fritter game:
- Patience is Key: Wait to Flip. This is perhaps the most crucial tip for crispy fritters. Do not rush to flip them! You want to ensure a deep golden-brown crust forms on the bottom before attempting to turn them over. This not only guarantees that satisfying crispy exterior but also prevents them from sticking to the pan or breaking apart. Resist the temptation to poke or move them for at least 3 minutes on the first side. A good indicator that they’re ready to flip is when the edges look set and golden.
- Choose the Right Pan. For optimal results, a nonstick skillet is highly recommended. Its surface ensures that the fritters release easily, preserving their shape and crust. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is another excellent choice, as it provides superb heat retention and creates a wonderfully crispy sear. Avoid using stainless steel pans for this recipe, as they tend to cause the fritters to stick, making flipping difficult and potentially ruining their form.
- Get Creative with Add-ins! While the basic recipe is fantastic, mashed potato fritters are incredibly versatile and welcome a variety of additions to boost flavor and texture. Consider incorporating cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory touch, or browned Italian sausage for a heartier bite. Experiment with different cheese varieties, like a spicy pepper jack for a kick, or a smoked gouda for depth. Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary can add an aromatic dimension. For those who love heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes can turn these into fiery fritters. Don’t stop at the mixture; think about alternative dipping sauces too, such as a tangy garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo.
- Use the Right Mashed Potatoes. This recipe specifically calls for *mashed potatoes* – meaning potatoes that have been cooked and then combined with ingredients like cream, butter, and seasonings to create a rich, creamy consistency. Do not simply cook potatoes and mash them without any additions, then expect the same results. Plain mashed potatoes will be too dry and lack the necessary moisture and fat content to bind properly and achieve that desirable fluffy interior. Ensure your base is genuinely flavorful, creamy mashed potatoes.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan. Frying fritters in batches is essential. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the oil’s temperature significantly, preventing the fritters from becoming crispy. Instead, they will absorb more oil and turn out greasy and soft. Give each fritter enough space to cook evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
💡 More delicious crispy appetizer recipes: Crispy Korean BBQ Wings | Baked Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites | Jalapeño Avocado Cream Cheese Wontons | Fried Ravioli
Can Mashed Potato Fritters Be Baked?
While frying these mashed potato fritters is the recommended method for achieving their signature crispy exterior and tender interior, I have not personally tested baking them. Based on the ingredients and desired texture, I do not believe baking would yield the same satisfyingly crisp result. The high moisture content in the mashed potatoes, combined with the quick cooking time needed to prevent drying out, makes baking a challenging alternative for truly crispy fritters. For the best experience, preserving that delightful crunch, I strongly advise sticking to the pan-frying method outlined in the recipe.
Do I Need to Season the Mixture with Salt and Pepper?
This is an excellent question! The need for additional seasoning largely depends on your starting point. If you are using leftover mashed potatoes that were already seasoned generously with salt, pepper, and perhaps other spices like garlic powder or onion powder, then you likely won’t need to add much, if any, extra salt and pepper to the fritter mixture. The goal is to avoid over-seasoning. However, it’s always a good idea to taste a small amount of your mashed potato mixture before forming the patties. If it tastes a bit bland or flat, feel free to add a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper to bring out the flavors. Always season to your personal preference, keeping in mind that the cheese will also contribute some saltiness.
Can These Fritters Be Prepared Ahead of Time?
While mashed potato fritters can indeed be made ahead of time, for the absolute best experience – a perfectly crispy exterior and warm, fluffy interior – I highly recommend preparing and serving them fresh, straight out of the skillet. This is when their texture and flavor are at their peak.
If you do need to prepare them in advance, the cooked fritters can be stored. To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to maintain any crispiness, as it will likely soften them. Instead, gently rewarm them in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat until they are heated through and the exterior has crisped back up. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an oven or air fryer for a few minutes until hot and re-crisped. If you plan to make a large batch, consider freezing them as detailed below for longer storage.
Can Any Type of Mashed Potatoes Be Used?
Yes, you can certainly use a wide variety of mashed potatoes for this recipe, which is part of its charm as a leftover solution! We particularly enjoy using Instant Pot mashed potatoes, especially those infused with roasted garlic and Parmesan, as the rich flavors truly shine through. Whether your mashed potatoes are buttery, garlicky, cheesy, or herb-laden, almost any flavor profile will work wonderfully in these fritters.
However, there’s one important caveat: make sure your mashed potatoes are truly “mashed potatoes” in the sense that they are creamy and enriched with butter, milk, or cream, and seasoned. If you’re starting with plain, boiled, and simply smashed potatoes that are quite dry or lack added fats, I strongly recommend transforming them into a creamy mashed potato mixture first. Adding a bit of butter, cream, and seasoning will give them the right consistency and flavor base needed for the fritters to bind properly and achieve that delicious, tender texture.
Can Mashed Potato Fritters Be Frozen?
Absolutely! These mashed potato fritters are an excellent candidate for freezing, making them a perfect make-ahead option for quick meals or appetizers. In fact, we often double the batch when we have an abundance of leftover mashed potatoes (or even intentionally make mashed potatoes just for this recipe!) because they freeze and reheat so beautifully.
To freeze, first allow the cooked fritters to cool completely to room temperature. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. This “flash freezing” prevents them from sticking together. Once solid, transfer the frozen fritters to an airtight freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Layer them with parchment paper between fritters to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed for cooked fritters to bring back their crispiness.
Can I Make These Potato Fritters Vegan?
Yes, with a few simple adjustments, you can certainly make these delicious mashed potato fritters entirely vegan! The key is to swap out the non-vegan ingredients:
- Mashed Potatoes: Ensure your base mashed potatoes are vegan-friendly. This means using plant-based milk (such as almond milk or soy milk), vegan butter, and any other vegan seasonings.
- Egg: Replace the large egg with a suitable vegan egg substitute. Options include a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken), a commercial egg replacer powder mixed according to package directions, or a mashed ripe banana (though this might slightly alter the flavor profile, best for sweeter applications). For savory fritters, a flax egg or commercial replacer is usually best.
- Cheese: Omit the shredded cheese entirely for a simpler flavor, or use your favorite brand of vegan shredded cheese substitute. Many plant-based cheddar or Colby jack alternatives melt and brown beautifully.
By making these substitutions, you can enjoy all the crispy, creamy goodness of these mashed potato fritters while adhering to a vegan diet!
My Mixture Is Too Wet – What Should I Do?
If your mashed potato mixture feels too wet and isn’t holding its shape well enough to form patties, don’t worry – this is a common issue and easily fixable! The consistency of mashed potatoes can vary, especially with different brands or homemade recipes. The solution is to gradually add more flour to the mixture. Start by mixing in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour at a time. Stir it in thoroughly until fully incorporated, then test the mixture by trying to form a small patty. If it’s still too wet and crumbly, add another tablespoon. Repeat this process, adding flour one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is firm enough to easily form into patties that hold their shape. Be careful not to add too much flour too quickly, as this can make the fritters dense and dry. A little extra flour goes a long way in providing the necessary structure.
My Mixture Is Too Dry – What Should I Do?
Conversely, if your mashed potato mixture is too dry and crumbly, making it difficult to form into cohesive patties, it likely needs more moisture and binding power. The easiest solution is to add another egg! A single large egg should usually provide enough liquid and binding agents to bring the mixture together. Lightly beat the egg and mix it thoroughly into your potato mixture. If, after adding the egg, the mixture becomes a little too wet, you can then balance it out by adding a small amount of flour, just as described in the “too wet” troubleshooting tip. The goal is a pliable, slightly sticky mixture that can be easily shaped.
Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizers recipe page!
What to Serve with Mashed Potato Fritters
Mashed potato fritters are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to almost any meal or occasion. Their savory flavor and delightful texture mean they pair well with a wide array of dishes and toppings:
- Classic Toppings: For many, nothing beats a generous dollop of creamy sour cream and a fresh sprinkle of finely chopped chives. The cool tang of the sour cream perfectly balances the rich, warm fritters, while the chives add a fresh, oniony zing.
- Savory Enhancements: Elevate the savory notes with a smear of homemade garlic aioli or a drizzle of a creamy herb sauce. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or grated Parmesan cheese just after frying also adds an irresistible crunch and flavor.
- Sweet & Savory Twist: For a delightful sweet and savory contrast, serving these fritters with applesauce is a cherished tradition, especially common with potato latkes. This combination evokes comforting childhood memories for many and offers a refreshing counterpoint to the fried potatoes.
- As an Appetizer or Snack: These fritters are perfect on their own as a tasty snack or a sophisticated appetizer. If serving for a party, consider forming smaller, bite-sized patties for easy mingling. They’re a fantastic addition to a holiday spread, especially for events like New Year’s Eve appetizers.
- As a Side Dish: These fritters make an excellent side to a variety of main protein dishes. They’re wonderful alongside roasted meats like roasted chicken with wine and herbs, a perfectly cooked ribeye steak, or delicate baked lemon garlic salmon. They offer a more interesting and comforting alternative to plain mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
And remember, the world of fritters extends beyond potatoes! Explore other flavorful options like air fryer zucchini fritters for a different veggie-packed crispy delight.
How to Store and Reheat Fritters
Proper storage and reheating ensure your mashed potato fritters remain a delicious treat, even days after they’re made. Here’s how to best store and revive them:
- Storing Cooked Fritters: Allow any leftover fritters to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent them from sticking together, you can layer them between sheets of parchment paper if you have many.
- Reheating for Crispiness: To bring back that desired crispy exterior, avoid the microwave for reheating if possible. Instead, warm a small amount of olive oil or canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, gently place the fritters in the pan and reheat them for a few minutes on each side until they are heated through and have regained their golden-brown crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until hot and crispy.
- Reheating in the Microwave: While convenient, microwaving is not recommended if you prioritize a crispy exterior. It will heat them through but will soften the fritters significantly. If you must use a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
- Freezing Fritters: As mentioned, these fritters freeze exceptionally well! After cooking, let them cool completely. For best results, flash freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep for up to 3 months.
- Thawing Frozen Fritters: To thaw, simply transfer the frozen fritters to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. Once thawed, reheat them using the skillet, oven, or air fryer method described above to restore their crispy texture.
More Delicious Potato Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with these mashed potato fritters, you’ll be thrilled to know there are many more exciting ways to enjoy potatoes! Here are a few more potato-centric recipes that are sure to become family favorites:
- Crispy Fried Mexican Potatoes: These flavorful and boldly seasoned fried Mexican potatoes are a vibrant side dish that everyone absolutely adores. They offer a fantastic blend of spices and textures that will liven up any meal.
- Garlic Butter Oven Roasted Carrots and Potatoes: A timeless combination for a reason! The savory pairing of tender oven-roasted carrots and potatoes, infused with rich garlic herb butter, creates a classic and comforting side that complements nearly any main course.
- Easiest Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes: If you’re looking for the quickest and most hassle-free way to make creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes, look no further. Our Instant Pot mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and Parmesan are incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness – perfect as a base for these fritters or as a standalone side!
Finally, if you try this incredible mashed potato fritters recipe, please be sure to give it a rating and/or leave a comment below! Your feedback is invaluable, and I truly love hearing when you all recreate these recipes at home. I make it a point to respond to every single comment and answer any questions you might have.
And don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you share photos of your culinary creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your kitchens is genuinely my favorite part of what I do – it means the world to me!
Mashed Potato Fritters Recipe Card
Equipment Required
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mixing bowls
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wooden spoon
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Cast Iron Skillet
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nonstick skillet
Ingredients List
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 2/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 Tbsp freshly chopped green onion
- 2 tsp freshly chopped chives
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour divided
- Canola oil
- For serving: sour cream freshly chopped chives, applesauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Add mashed potatoes, cheese, chives, green onion, egg, and 1/4 cup flour to a large bowl. Stir to combine. Note that you should not need to add salt and pepper if your mashed potatoes are seasoned well. If they are bland, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add remaining 1/4 cup flour to a shallow plate or bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
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Divide the potato mixture into 12 balls. Flatten each ball into a patty that is about 1/2-inch thick.
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Dredge the patties on both sides in flour, shaking off any excess. Place on a plate.
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Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Once hot, add patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan as you work. Cook the patties for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
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Remove to a plate lined with paper towels and sprinkle with flaky salt. Repeat frying with remaining patties.
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Serve warm with sour cream and chives or applesauce.