Golden brown air fryer potato cakes on a plate, ready to serve
An image of the author of the blog
Emma Lawson | 
14.07.2025

Air Fryer Potato Cakes

Discover the best air fry potato cakes using leftover mashed potatoes and panko. These crispy potato cakes in the air fryer are perfect for any snack craving. Whether you fancy loaded air fryer potato cakes or a simple version, the basket style air fryer makes them quick and easy to prepare. Flipping halfway ensures an all-around crunch, transforming your cold mashed potatoes into a delightful crispy treat.
Prep Time
10m
Cook
15m
Total Time
25m
Yield
serves 4
Icon of a chef hat
Potatoes
Icon of a Star
Potatoes

What You’ll Need for Air Fryer Potato Cakes

Essential Ingredients

  • 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chives, chopped

Cheddar Cheese

Adding grated cheddar gives an extra layer of flavour, making your loaded air fryer potato cakes even more delicious. Simply mix it with mashed potatoes before forming cakes.

Why Use Breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs, especially panko, ensure a super crispy exterior. They help the cakes hold their shape while cooking in the air fryer.

Steps to Cook Potato Cakes in Air Fryer

Start by forming your mashed potato mixture into cakes.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
  2. Mix mashed potatoes, panko, chives, and egg thoroughly.
  3. Shape the mixture into small patties.
  4. Lightly spray the basket with oil and place patties inside.
  5. Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Avoid Overcooking

Make sure to flip the potato cakes halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking.
Air fryer basket filled with crispy potato cakes, fresh from cooking

Nutrition for Air Fryer Potato Cakes

Calories: 320 | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 10g

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Potato Cakes

Serve these air fry potato cakes warm with a dollop of sour cream or your favourite salsa for an extra kick. They also pair well with a fresh side salad or as a snack on their own.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Potato Cakes

These air fry potato cakes are a fantastic way to utilise leftover mashed potatoes while creating a snack the whole family will love. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk for more creative air fryer recipes that’ll become staples in your meal rotation. Whether you're using a basket style air fryer or a different model, these crispy delights are sure to please!

Explore other Recipes below!

FAQs about Air Fryer Potato Cakes

How do I prevent air fryer potato cakes from sticking?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
Learn more more

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of mashed potatoes?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Yes, simply cook and mash them as you normally would before forming cakes.
Learn more more

What is the best temperature to cook potato cakes in an air fryer?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for optimal results.
Learn more more

Can I freeze leftover mashed potato cakes?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Yes, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Learn more more