Air Fryer Potato Cakes with Poached Eggs
Introduction:
Potato cakes are the ultimate comfort food — crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside. Top them with a perfectly poached egg, and you’ve got a brunch-worthy dish that’s hearty, healthy, and delicious. This air fryer version skips the grease and delivers perfect texture with minimal effort.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Potato Cakes:
2 cups mashed potatoes (cold, leftover works best)
1 egg
¼ cup all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil spray (for air fryer)
For the Poached Eggs:
2–4 eggs (as desired)
1 tbsp vinegar (for poaching water)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Potato Cake Mixture
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, flour (or breadcrumbs), cheese, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix well until everything is fully combined.
Form into 4–6 small patties, about ½ inch thick. Chill for 10 minutes (optional for better shape).
Air Fry the Potato Cakes
Preheat air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 3–5 minutes.
Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil. Place potato cakes in a single layer.
Spray tops of cakes lightly with oil for better crisping.
Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
Poach the Eggs (Stovetop)
Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. Add vinegar and a pinch of salt.
Crack an egg into a small bowl.
Swirl the water and gently slide in the egg.
Poach for 3–4 minutes until whites are set and yolks are still runny.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel.
Assemble & Serve
Place 1–2 potato cakes on each plate.
Gently top with a poached egg.
Sprinkle with black pepper, herbs, or a drizzle of hot sauce or hollandaise, if desired.
Tips & Variations:
No leftover mash? Boil and mash 2 medium potatoes ahead of time.
Make it cheesy: Add mozzarella or feta into the center of each cake before cooking.
Add protein: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon or smoked salmon to the potato mix.
Make ahead: Form and chill the cakes in advance, then air fry fresh when ready.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 2 potato cakes + 1 egg)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 10g
Carbs: 25g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 2g