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    Home / British / Irish Kitchen / Bubble and Squeak

    Bubble and Squeak

    Leftover mashed potatoes and cabbage, pressed into a pan and fried until the outside crackles and browns while the middle stays soft and steamy.

    ⏱ 15 minPrep time
    🔥 20 minCook time
    🍽 4Servings
    🏷 British / Irish KitchenCategory
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    Leftover mashed potatoes and cabbage, pressed into a pan and fried until the outside crackles and browns while the middle stays soft and steamy. The name supposedly comes from the sounds it makes while cooking — and it does indeed squeak and pop in the pan.

    The classic follow-up to a big roast, bubble and squeak is the ultimate fridge-clearing side dish. Serve it with cold meat, a fried egg, or a splash of brown sauce.

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    Step by stepInstructions

    1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon (if using) over medium heat until crisp; remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan. Add the butter and oil, then the onion, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
    2. Combine the mashed potatoes, cabbage, nutmeg, and beaten egg (if using) in a bowl; season well with salt and pepper.
    3. Add the potato mixture to the skillet, pressing it into an even cake about 1 inch thick.
    4. Cook undisturbed over medium heat until the bottom is deeply browned and crisp, 8-10 minutes.
    5. Flip in sections (or use a plate to invert the whole cake) and brown the other side, 6-8 minutes more.
    6. Scatter with the reserved bacon and herbs, and serve hot.

    💡 Chef tips & storage

    Don't stir once it hits the pan — patience is what builds the crust. If the mixture is very loose, a beaten egg helps it hold together.

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    Recipe details

    Prep15 min
    Cook20 min
    Servings4
    CategoryBritish / Irish Kitchen
    PublishedAugust 17, 2026
    Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

    Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

    Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →

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