These Low Carb Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potato cakes, using cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option. Packed with cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, these savory cakes are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a side dish. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a flavorful and satisfying addition to any meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Low Carb Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are a fun and tasty twist on a classic comfort food. By swapping out potatoes for cauliflower, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of loaded mashed potatoes without the extra carbs. These cakes are filled with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, making them perfect for keto or low-carb diets. Serve them as a side dish or even as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons almond flour (optional, for extra binding)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
Instructions
- Cook Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Drain well and let cool slightly.
- Mash Cauliflower: Transfer the cauliflower to a large mixing bowl and mash until smooth. You can also use a food processor for a smoother texture.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the mashed cauliflower. Mix until well combined. If the mixture seems too loose, add almond flour for extra binding.
- Form Patties: Form the mixture into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Fry the Cakes: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the cauliflower patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary, and do not overcrowd the pan.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked potato cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Drain Well: Make sure to drain the cooked cauliflower well and pat it dry to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps the cakes hold together better.
- Binding: If your mixture feels too loose, adding almond flour can help bind the ingredients together.
- Reheating: Reheat leftover cakes in a skillet to maintain their crispy texture.
Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or your favorite cheese for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian option and add extra herbs like chopped parsley or chives.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to cook it until tender and drain it very well to remove excess moisture.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Low Carb Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes are a tasty and healthy twist on a classic comfort food. Made with cauliflower instead of potatoes, these cakes are perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. The combination of cheese, bacon, and green onions makes them flavorful and satisfying. They’re easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a quick snack.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of loaded mashed potatoes without the extra carbs!
Happy Cooking!