Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a brilliant way to use up leftovers.
It requires only a few simple ingredients.
It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside.
It’s budget-friendly and filling.
It works as a main dish or a side.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups mashed potatoes
2 cups cooked cabbage, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
1/2 onion, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- If not already prepared, cook and mash the potatoes and boil or sauté the cabbage until tender. Allow them to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and chopped cabbage. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and lightly golden.
- Add the potato and cabbage mixture to the skillet, pressing it down firmly with a spatula to form a thick, even layer.
- Cook for 8 to 10 minutes without stirring, allowing the bottom to become crisp and golden.
- Carefully flip sections of the mixture or turn the entire cake over in portions. Cook for another 8 to 10 minutes until both sides are crispy and heated through.
- Serve hot, either in slices or spooned onto plates.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Add cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
Mix in leftover roasted vegetables such as carrots or Brussels sprouts.
Top with a fried or poached egg for a hearty breakfast.
Add shredded cheese to the mixture for a richer taste.
Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist.
Season with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness.
You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezing is possible, but the texture may soften slightly after thawing.
FAQs
Why is it called Bubble and Squeak?
The name comes from the bubbling and squeaking sounds the ingredients make while frying.
Can I use leftover roast potatoes instead of mashed?
Yes, simply chop them finely before mixing with the cabbage.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage or savoy cabbage works particularly well.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, the basic recipe is naturally vegetarian when cooked with butter or oil.
How do I get it extra crispy?
Press the mixture firmly into the pan and avoid stirring too often.
Can I bake it instead of frying?
Yes, bake in a greased dish at 375°F for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway if possible.
Is it traditionally served for breakfast?
It’s commonly served as part of a full breakfast, but it also makes a great side dish.
Can I add spices?
Yes, a pinch of paprika or mustard powder adds extra depth of flavor.
How thick should the mixture be in the pan?
About 1 to 2 inches thick works best for achieving a crispy exterior and soft interior.
What can I serve with Bubble and Squeak?
It pairs well with eggs, sausages, roasted meats, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Bubble and Squeak is a humble yet delicious dish that turns simple leftovers into something truly satisfying. With its crispy edges and comforting texture, it’s a versatile recipe that works any time of day. Whether served as a main or a side, this classic dish proves that simple ingredients can create remarkable flavor.
PrintBubble and Squeak
Bubble and Squeak is a traditional British comfort dish made from mashed potatoes and cabbage pan-fried until golden and crispy. This simple and budget-friendly recipe transforms leftovers into a hearty, flavorful meal with a crisp exterior and soft interior.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cups cooked cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- If not already prepared, cook and mash the potatoes and cook the cabbage until tender. Allow to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes and chopped cabbage. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened and lightly golden.
- Add the potato and cabbage mixture to the skillet, pressing firmly into an even layer about 1 to 2 inches thick.
- Cook undisturbed for 8 to 10 minutes until the bottom is crisp and golden.
- Flip in sections or carefully turn the mixture over and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes until both sides are crispy and heated through.
- Serve hot, sliced or spooned onto plates.
Notes
- Press mixture firmly and avoid stirring to achieve a crispy crust.
- Leftover roast potatoes can be chopped and used instead of mashed.
- Add cooked bacon, ham, or cheese for extra flavor.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme enhance the taste.
- Best reheated in a skillet to restore crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
