Pin A comforting, budget-friendly dish inspired by classic Depression-era recipes, these crispy ham and potato patties are savory, simple, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
I first made these ham & potato patties after hearing stories from my grandmother about how her family cooked resourcefully during hard times. They quickly became a staple in our home for their simplicity and comfort.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 2 cups (about 350 g) cooked, mashed potatoes (leftovers work well)
- Ham: 1 cup (150 g) cooked ham, finely chopped
- Onion: 1 small onion, finely diced
- Parsley (optional): 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped
- Egg: 1 large egg
- All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup (40 g) plus extra for dusting
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil or unsalted butter: 2–3 tablespoons for frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, chopped ham, diced onion, parsley (if using), egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and a thick mixture forms.
- Shape Patties:
- With floured hands, shape the mixture into 8 patties about 2.5 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Lightly dust each patty with flour.
- Heat Skillet:
- Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry Patties:
- Fry the patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Serve:
- Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot.
Pin When everyone gathers for breakfast on weekends, these patties are a family favorite. My kids love helping shape them and sneaking bites before they even reach the table.
Variations & Substitutions
Try adding 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. Substitute cooked bacon or leftover roast beef for ham if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these patties with mustard, ketchup, or a fried egg on top for a more complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve their crispy texture.
Pin Enjoy these humble, hearty patties any time you need comfort food that brings everyone together. They're sure to become a family classic.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of potatoes work best for these patties?
Mashed potatoes, preferably leftover or freshly cooked and cooled, yield the best texture for forming patties that hold together well when frying.
- → Can I substitute ham with other meats?
Yes, cooked bacon or leftover roast beef can be used as flavorful alternatives to ham, offering different tastes while maintaining the dish’s heartiness.
- → How do I achieve a crispy exterior on the patties?
Use a hot skillet with enough oil or butter, and cook patties in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
- → Are there options for gluten-free preparation?
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to suit gluten sensitivity without compromising the binding of the patties.
- → What flavors can enhance these patties?
Adding dried thyme or a pinch of paprika can enhance the savory notes, while serving with mustard, ketchup, or a fried egg adds complementary taste layers.
