Depression-Era Ham Potato Patties

Featured in: Comfort Plates

These ham and potato patties combine mashed potatoes and finely chopped ham with simple seasonings to create a crisp, golden brown exterior and tender interior. The patties are formed, lightly dusted with flour, and pan-fried until beautifully browned. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this comforting dish is inspired by classic Depression-era cooking, making it both budget-friendly and satisfying. Optional herbs and varied meat substitutions allow for personalization, while serving suggestions like mustard, ketchup, or a fried egg complete the plate.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:14:00 GMT
Golden-brown Depression-Era Ham & Potato Patties, crispy and savory, ready to be enjoyed. Save
Golden-brown Depression-Era Ham & Potato Patties, crispy and savory, ready to be enjoyed. | tastychuck.com

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.

These patties remind me of the humble meals my grandmother used to make. She always found creative ways to stretch ingredients, and these simple patties brought warmth to the table during lean times.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 2 cups (about 350 g) cooked, mashed potatoes (leftovers work well)
  • Cooked ham: 1 cup (150 g) finely chopped
  • Onion: 1 small, finely diced
  • Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped (optional)
  • Egg: 1 large
  • All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup (40 g) plus more 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.
Form 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, or until golden brown and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Serve:
Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot.
Imagine the aroma: sizzling Depression-Era Ham & Potato Patties with a crispy, golden crust. Save
Imagine the aroma: sizzling Depression-Era Ham & Potato Patties with a crispy, golden crust. | tastychuck.com

Whenever I make these for my family, my kids love helping shape the patties. It has become a fun way for us to bond in the kitchen and share stories about past generations.

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl, skillet or frying pan, spatula, measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains: Eggs, Wheat (Gluten). May contain: Milk (if using butter), potential cross-contamination in ham. Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 220 Calories, 9 g Total Fat, 22 g Carbohydrates, 11 g Protein

Perfectly fried Depression-Era Ham & Potato Patties, a simple comfort food classic, served hot. Save
Perfectly fried Depression-Era Ham & Potato Patties, a simple comfort food classic, served hot. | tastychuck.com

Try these ham & potato patties for an easy meal that brings comfort and tradition to your table. They're sure to become a family favorite!

Recipe Guide

What type of potatoes work best for these patties?

Mashed potatoes, especially leftovers that are firm and not overly watery, work best to hold the patties together.

Can I substitute the ham with other meats?

Yes, cooked bacon or leftover roast beef can be used as alternatives for the ham in this dish.

How can I make these patties gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the patties suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

What frying fats are recommended?

Vegetable oil or unsalted butter can be used for frying, each lending a slightly different flavor and texture.

Any tips to enhance flavor?

Adding dried thyme or a pinch of paprika to the mixture can bring extra depth and aroma to the patties.

Depression-Era Ham Potato Patties

Golden crisp ham and potato patties, savory and simple for any meal occasion. Budget-friendly comfort food.

Prep duration
15 min
Heat time
20 min
Full duration
35 min
Created by Chuck Harrison


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Labels None specified

What you'll need

Potatoes

01 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes (approximately 12.3 ounces)

Meats

01 1 cup cooked ham, finely chopped (approximately 5.3 ounces)

Vegetables & Aromatics

01 1 small onion, finely diced
02 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Pantry & Bindings

01 1 large egg
02 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (approximately 1.4 ounces), plus extra for dusting
03 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying

01 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or unsalted butter

Method

Phase 01

Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, chopped ham, diced onion, parsley if using, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until a thick mixture forms.

Phase 02

Shape patties: With hands lightly dusted with flour, form the mixture into eight patties approximately 2.5 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Lightly coat each patty with flour.

Phase 03

Heat the skillet: Warm the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Phase 04

Fry the patties: Cook the patties in batches, frying each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Phase 05

Drain and serve: Remove the patties using a spatula, transferring them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot.

Kitchen tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy alerts

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure
  • Contains eggs and wheat (gluten). May contain milk if butter is used. Cross-contamination possible with ham products.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice
  • Energy: 220
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Proteins: 11 g