“Why not transform your leftovers into something spectacular?” I thought to myself, staring at a bowl of mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner. The solution? Crispy Mashed Potato Fries! Your mouth will water at the thought of golden-brown fries, boasting a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. This irresistible snack is perfect for those lazy afternoons or as a delightful side dish. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can whip it up in no time, whether you’re frying, baking, or air-frying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize any leftover mashed potatoes, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Who knew that homemade comfort could be this easy? So, are you ready to take your cooking game to the next level with these crunchy delights? Let’s dive in!

Why not turn leftovers into fries?

Versatile Cooking: You can whip these up by frying, baking, or air-frying, giving you multiple options to suit your mood.
Waste Not, Want Not: Transform those leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious new dish, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Crisp and Crunchy: Enjoy the delightful contrast of a crunchy exterior and a fluffy interior that rivals traditional fries.
Family-Friendly Appeal: These fries are sure to please everyone at the table—perfect for kids and adults alike! For more engaging sides, check out my Kielbasa Potato Soup or Sausage and Sweet Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Quick Prep: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have these golden fries ready in no time!

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delightful treat!

For the Fries
• Potatoes – 500 grams or 1 lb, peeled and cubed; any variety of good boiling potatoes will work well.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon or to taste; enhances flavor during boiling.
• Parmesan Cheese – ⅓ cup, freshly grated; adds richness, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
• Ground Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon or to taste; freshly ground is recommended for the best flavor.
• Potato Starch – 4 tablespoons for the batter and an extra tablespoon for dusting; it helps create that crispy texture.
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped, to taste; adds a pop of freshness, or substitute with fresh chives or green onions.
• Oil – Enough for deep frying (sunflower, peanut, or canola oil recommended); essential for achieving those crispy mashed potato fries.

Feel free to customize your fries, and remember that they can be baked or air-fried for a healthier twist!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cutting 500 grams of potatoes into equal-sized cubes to ensure even cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain them in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to remove excess moisture, preparing for a perfect mash.

Step 2: Mash Potatoes
Transfer the drained potatoes to a large bowl and mash them until completely smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Mix in ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 4 tablespoons of potato starch. Stir in chopped fresh parsley to add flavor, creating a cohesive mixture that will form the base of your Crispy Mashed Potato Fries.

Step 3: Shape Fries
Divide the mashed potato mixture into two equal portions and form each into a ball. Place one ball on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about ½ inch thick. Cut the rolled-out mixture into strips, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Repeat with the second portion, carefully shaping the fries for even crispness.

Step 4: Heat Oil
In a large, deep pan, pour enough oil for deep frying, heating it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping in a small piece of potato; if it sizzles, the oil is ready. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy exterior for your Crispy Mashed Potato Fries.

Step 5: Fry
Carefully lower the potato strips into the hot oil in small batches, avoiding overcrowding to ensure they fry evenly. Cook each batch for about 5–7 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember to turn them occasionally with a slotted spoon for an even fry. Once cooked to perfection, remove the fries from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack.

Step 6: Drain & Serve
Once the fries have drained, place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to absorb any excess oil. While still hot, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired and season with salt. Serve your crispy delights immediately as a snack or side dish, enjoying the irresistible goodness of Crispy Mashed Potato Fries!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Mashed Potato Fries are perfect for meal prep and can save you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture (combined with cheese, seasoning, and potato starch) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. For optimal flavor and texture, chill the mixture before shaping it into fries. When you’re ready to cook, cut the fries and proceed with frying, baking, or air frying as desired. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious, crispy fries while cutting down on prep time! Plus, if you have any leftover fries, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic option for quick snacks or sides.

Storage Tips for Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

Fridge: Store leftover fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat in an oven instead of the microwave.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked, shaped fries on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to one month.

Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked fries in the oven at 400°F for 10 minutes, allowing them to regain their crunch.

Thawing: If freezing, there’s no need to thaw before frying or baking. Cook straight from the freezer for fresh, crispy fries!

Expert Tips for Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use good boiling potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets; they create a fluffier mash ideal for making crispy mashed potato fries.
Avoid Overcooking: Make sure to boil the potatoes just until fork-tender. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture in your fries.
Cool Before Shaping: Chill your mashed potato mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes before forming fries. This helps them hold their shape better during frying.
Don’t Skimp on Oil: Ensure your frying oil is adequately heated and deep enough to fully submerge the fries—this is key for achieving that golden crispiness.
Batch Frying: Fry in small batches. Crowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy fries instead of crispy mashed potato fries.
Let Them Drain: After frying, let the fries sit on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This helps keep them crispy as the excess steam escapes.

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries Variations

Why not let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful fries? The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a burst of flavor!

Spicy Twist: Add finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the potato mixture for a fiery kick. It’s a great way to make your fries exciting and vibrant.
Cheesy Goodness: Substitute the Parmesan with sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a deliciously melty twist. The flavors will deepen, giving your fries an indulgent richness that’s hard to resist.
Air Fryer Friendly: For a healthier option, air fry the shaped fries at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. They’ll come out just as crispy without the excess oil, perfect for a guilt-free indulgence.
Herb-Infused: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the mashed potato mix for an aromatic touch. This simple variation can elevate the flavor profile, making your fries even more tantalizing.
Sweet Potato Surprise: Swap half the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet twist. This adds a lovely color and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dips.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in toasted sesame seeds or flaxseeds before frying to add an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a satisfying texture that adds a whole new dimension to your fries.
Baked Option: For an even easier variation, spray the fries with a light oil coating and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. They’ll still be crispy without the need for deep frying.
Flavorful Dips: Serve these fries with a side of zesty ranch or spicy aioli for an extra kick. Dipping sauces can take your appetizer to a whole new level, and they pair perfectly with the fries’ crispy texture.

Embrace these ideas to keep your Crispy Mashed Potato Fries interesting every time you make them! And for more delicious twists, consider enjoying them alongside my Bang Bang Salmon or the comforting flavors of Kielbasa Potato Soup for a delightful meal experience.

What to Serve with Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

Pair these delightfully crunchy fries with something delicious to create the ultimate meal experience!

Classic Burger: The bold flavors and juicy texture of a burger provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy fries, creating a comforting meal. Try pairing them with your favorite toppings for a fun twist!
Creamy Dipping Sauces: Serve with creamy ranch or zesty garlic aioli for a dreamy dipping experience that enhances the flavor of the fries. Your guests will love experimenting with different sauces.
Grilled Chicken: The charred, savory notes of grilled chicken complement the fluffy interior of the fries, creating a harmoniously delicious combination. A squeeze of lemon can brighten up the dish beautifully!
Zucchini Fritters: These lightly fried fritters add a veggie-packed crunch that balances well with the fries’ texture. Plus, they introduce fresh flavors that make for a complete meal.
Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette will create an inviting contrast with the richness of crispy mashed potato fries, brightening your plate!
Craft Beer: The refreshing effervescence of a cold craft beer or a light pilsner pairs perfectly with the salty crunch of the fries, elevating your snack time to a fun evening treat!
Chocolate Mousse: To finish on a sweet note, serve a light chocolate mousse for dessert. Its creamy texture will be a delightful way to end your meal after those crispy fries!

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for crispy mashed potato fries?
Absolutely! It’s best to use good boiling potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets. These varieties create a fluffier mash that holds up beautifully when formed into fries, ensuring that crispy texture we all crave.

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your leftover crispy mashed potato fries, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, I recommend using an oven instead of a microwave to maintain the fries’ crispy goodness. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and pop them in for about 10 minutes.

Can I freeze these fries?
Yes, you can! Freezing uncooked, shaped fries is a fantastic way to ensure you always have a delicious snack on hand. Spread them out on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to one month. When you’re ready, there’s no need to thaw—just fry or bake straight from the freezer.

What should I do if my fries are soggy after frying?
Very often, soggy fries are caused by overcrowding the frying pan or not heating the oil sufficiently. Make sure to fry in small batches, and ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 175°C) before adding the fries. After frying, drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to help keep them crispy.

Are there any dietary considerations for these fries?
Certainly! This recipe can be easily adapted to cater to dietary needs. You can make these fries gluten-free by ensuring your potato starch is certified gluten-free, and for a vegan option, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. Always check for allergies with ingredients like cheese and oils!

How can I enhance the flavor of my fries?
You can customize your crispy mashed potato fries in numerous ways! For a flavor boost, consider adding spices such as garlic powder or paprika to the mash. You might also incorporate finely chopped herbs like chives or green onions, especially if you’re looking to elevate the freshness of the dish.

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries: Your New Favorite Snack Idea

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries transform leftovers into a golden-brown delight with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior—all while being versatile for frying, baking, or air-frying.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 15

Cooling Time 5

Total Time 50

Servings: 4 fries

Course: Appetizers

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Fries

500 grams Potatoes peeled and cubed; any good boiling potatoes
1 teaspoon Salt to taste; enhances flavor during boiling
⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated; or nutritional yeast for vegan
¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper freshly ground is recommended
4 tablespoons Potato Starch for batter; an extra tablespoon for dusting
Fresh Parsley chopped, to taste; or fresh chives/green onions
Oil enough for deep frying (sunflower, peanut, or canola)

Equipment

Large Pot
colander
Large bowl
Deep Pan
Slotted spoon
Wire Rack

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

Begin by peeling and cutting 500 grams of potatoes into equal-sized cubes. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let sit for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
Transfer the drained potatoes to a large bowl and mash until completely smooth. Mix in ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 4 tablespoons of potato starch. Stir in chopped parsley to create a cohesive mixture.
Divide the mashed potato mixture into two portions and form into balls. Roll each ball out to about ½ inch thick and cut into strips.
In a large, deep pan, heat enough oil for frying to 350°F (175°C). Test the temperature by dropping in a small piece of potato; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Carefully lower the potato strips into the hot oil in small batches, frying for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Turn occasionally with a slotted spoon for even frying.
Once cooked, remove the fries from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and salt while hot. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Use good boiling potatoes for fluffier mash. Chill the mashed potato mixture for shape retention before frying. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature for crispiness.

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