Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties Recipe

  • July 16, 2025

If you’re craving a delicious, crispy treat that cleverly uses up leftover vegetables, Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties offer a fun, flavorful, and versatile way to make a tasty meal with minimal effort, combining the richness of mashed potatoes with vibrant, sautéed veggies.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties

Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties are an innovative take on the classic British dish "Bubble and Squeak," which traditionally uses leftover boiled potatoes and vegetables, pan-fried to create a crispy, golden exterior. These patties are an excellent way to transform yesterday’s leftovers into a flavorful, satisfying meal.

The beauty of the recipe lies in its simplicity – mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and peas are bound together with egg and breadcrumbs, formed into patties, and fried until crispy. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables while delivering a satisfying crunch. This recipe is easy to customize with different vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion.

Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver bubble and squeak patties

To make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • Leftover boiled or mashed potatoes – The star of the dish, providing a soft, creamy base.
  • Cabbage (or any other leftover veggies like carrots, peas, or Brussels sprouts) – These veggies add flavor and texture.
  • Egg – Helps bind the mixture together, creating a cohesive patty.
  • Breadcrumbs – Adds structure to the patty and helps achieve a crisp, golden exterior when fried.
  • Olive oil – For frying the patties to perfection.
  • Fresh herbs (optional) – Parsley, chives, or thyme can brighten the flavors.
  • Salt and pepper – For seasoning, enhancing the overall taste.

Equipment Needed

For making these Bubble and Squeak Patties, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:

  • Large mixing bowl – To combine all of the ingredients together.
  • Frying pan – To cook the patties and give them a beautiful crisp.
  • Spatula – To flip the patties gently.
  • Spoon or hands – To form the patties.
  • Pot or saucepan – If you need to boil or steam any vegetables you may be using.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties?

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by mashing your leftover potatoes (if they aren’t already mashed) and chopping your leftover vegetables. You can sauté cabbage or any other veggies that may need it, such as carrots or peas, to enhance their flavor.
  2. Mix the Patty Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and sautéed veggies. Add an egg to help bind everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want an added kick, you can mix in some fresh herbs.
  3. Form the Patties: Add breadcrumbs to the mixture until it holds together well. Use your hands or a spoon to form the mixture into small, round patties, about the size of your palm.
  4. Fry the Patties: Heat a little olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place the patties in the pan. Cook for around 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. You can make them in batches if needed.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once they’re cooked, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve them with your favorite dip, such as ketchup, sour cream, or even a tangy mustard sauce.

Expert Tips

  • Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal, this is the perfect way to repurpose them. Additionally, any leftover veggies work great in this recipe, so feel free to get creative.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the patties to cook evenly, ensuring they become crisp and golden.
  • Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: For a cheesy twist, you can mix some grated cheese (cheddar works great) into the patty mixture before forming the patties.
  • Freeze for Later: These patties freeze well! If you make a large batch, freeze them after frying. Simply reheat them in the oven or on a skillet when you’re ready to serve.
  • Make Them Healthier: If you’re looking to make the patties a bit healthier, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the mix for added nutrients.

Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties are not only a fantastic way to use up leftovers, but they are also incredibly versatile and delicious. Whether you’re serving them as a quick lunch, a side dish, or a snack, these crispy, golden patties are bound to please everyone’s taste buds.

With their combination of mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables, they offer a comforting meal with minimal prep work, making them perfect for busy days or when you want to add a little creativity to your cooking routine. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties

jamie oliver bubble and squeak patties

Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak patties are a delightful and versatile dish, originally created to help use up leftover vegetables, especially from a Sunday roast. While the classic version is delicious in its simplicity, there are many easy variations you can try to put your own spin on the dish or accommodate different tastes.

  1. Cheese-Lover’s Bubble and Squeak:

    A simple way to enhance the flavor of your patties is to add cheese. A sharp cheddar or crumbled feta works wonders when mixed into the mashed vegetables before shaping them into patties.

    The cheese melts beautifully, adding richness and depth to the patties. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a bit of blue cheese for a tangy twist.

  2. Herb Infused Patties:

    Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives can infuse your Bubble and Squeak patties with a refreshing flavor. Simply chop up a handful of herbs and mix them into the mashed vegetables for added aroma and a pop of color. You can even experiment with rosemary or basil for a slightly more exotic flavor.

  3. Sweet Potato and Carrot Bubble and Squeak:

    For a slightly sweet, vibrant twist, swap out regular potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes or a mix of sweet potatoes and carrots. These vegetables offer a sweeter flavor profile and are perfect for those who enjoy the balance of savory and sweet.

  4. Vegan Bubble and Squeak Patties:

    If you prefer to avoid dairy, you can create a vegan-friendly version by omitting the cheese and using a non-dairy butter or oil to bind the vegetables together. To give it more texture, consider adding some cooked quinoa or chickpeas, which will provide a little bite and extra nutrition.

  5. Spicy Bubble and Squeak Patties:

    For a kick of heat, you can add some finely chopped chili peppers or a teaspoon of paprika or cayenne pepper into the mixture. The warmth of the spice pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of the vegetables, giving your patties an exciting twist. Don’t forget a little pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

  6. Bubble and Squeak with Bacon:

    For those who love a meaty addition, try frying up some chopped bacon and mixing it into the mashed vegetables. The crispy bacon bits add a smoky, savory flavor that complements the soft and creamy patties. You can also experiment with pancetta or sausage meat for additional flavor complexity.

  7. Bubble and Squeak with Mushrooms:

    Adding sautéed mushrooms will give your patties an earthy, umami-rich flavor. Mushrooms such as cremini, button, or even wild mushrooms are perfect to fold into the mashed veggies. This variation is ideal for anyone who loves mushrooms or is looking to add extra depth to the dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover Bubble and Squeak patties are just as delicious the next day, and with proper storage, they can stay fresh and tasty for several days. Here are some best practices to store your leftover patties:

  1. Cool Completely:

    Before storing your leftover patties, make sure they have cooled completely to room temperature. If you store them while still warm, they can become soggy and lose their texture.

  2. Refrigeration:

    Place the cooled patties in an airtight container, making sure they are not touching each other to prevent sticking. If you are stacking them, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between each layer. Store the container in the refrigerator, where the patties will keep for up to 3 days.

  3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage:

    If you have a large batch of patties and want to store them for longer, freezing is a great option. First, freeze the patties individually on a baking sheet for about an hour, ensuring they don’t stick together.

    Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or a frying pan.

  4. Reheating:

    To reheat, you can either pop the patties in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until crispy, or heat them in a non-stick pan over medium heat with a little bit of oil or butter. The oven method ensures they stay crispy on the outside, while the pan method allows for quicker reheating and more crispiness.

What Goes Well With Bubble And Squeak Patties?

Bubble and Squeak patties are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas on what to serve alongside your patties:

  1. Gravy or Sauce:

    A rich, flavorful gravy or sauce can elevate the simple flavors of the patties. A classic brown gravy or a creamy mushroom sauce can complement the earthiness of the vegetables. You could also serve it with a tangy tomato relish or a zesty chutney for a unique contrast.

  2. Poached or Fried Eggs:

    The perfect accompaniment to your Bubble and Squeak patties is a poached or fried egg. The creamy yolk creates a luxurious sauce that pairs wonderfully with the crispy exterior and soft interior of the patties. This makes for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

  3. Salads:

    A fresh, crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty patties. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a mayo dressing, balances out the richness and adds a vibrant texture.

  4. Baked Beans:

    For a true comfort meal, serve the patties with a side of baked beans. The sweet and savory flavors of the beans pair well with the savory richness of the patties, making this a filling and satisfying meal.

  5. Steamed Vegetables:

    If you want to keep things light and healthy, serve the patties with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or peas. The crisp-tender vegetables add color and nutrients, providing a perfect balance to the meal.

  6. Roast Meat:

    Since Bubble and Squeak was traditionally made from leftover vegetables from a roast, it’s only fitting to pair it with roast meat. A slice of roast beef, chicken, or pork goes wonderfully with the patties, completing the meal in a rustic and delicious manner.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak patties are a fun and adaptable dish that can easily be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. With endless variations, such as adding cheese, bacon, herbs, or even switching up the vegetables, there is always a new way to enjoy this classic British comfort food.

And when it comes to storing leftovers, following the right practices can ensure you can savor these tasty patties for days to come. Paired with simple sides such as poached eggs, gravy, or a fresh salad, Bubble and Squeak patties are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish offers both comfort and creativity in every bite.

FAQs

What Are Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties Made Of?

Jamie Oliver’s bubble and squeak patties typically consist of leftover cooked vegetables such as cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. These are mashed together and formed into patties before being pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside.

Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead Of Leftovers?

Yes, you can use freshly cooked vegetables if you don’t have leftovers. Just make sure they’re soft enough to mash and have been drained well to avoid excess moisture in the patties.

How Do I Stop The Patties From Falling Apart While Cooking?

To help the patties hold together, ensure the mixture isn’t too wet. Adding a binding agent like a beaten egg or a bit of flour can provide extra stability. Also, chilling the patties in the fridge for 30 minutes before frying helps them firm up.

Do I Need To Peel The Potatoes?

Peeling is optional and depends on your preference. Jamie often embraces rustic textures, so leaving the skins on is acceptable, especially if the potatoes were already cooked as leftovers.

What Kind Of Oil Should I Use To Fry The Patties?

A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or vegetable oil, is ideal for frying bubble and squeak patties. You can also use a small knob of butter alongside the oil for added flavor.

Are Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties Vegetarian?

Yes, the basic recipe is vegetarian-friendly, provided no meat-based leftovers (like bacon or sausage) are included. Always check the specific recipe version to ensure it aligns with dietary needs.

Can I Make The Patties Ahead Of Time?

Absolutely. You can form the patties a day in advance and keep them refrigerated. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just defrost and pan-fry when ready to eat.

What Can I Serve With Bubble And Squeak Patties?

They pair well with poached or fried eggs, grilled tomatoes, baked beans, or even a simple salad. Jamie often serves them as part of a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Can I Bake The Patties Instead Of Frying Them?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the patties on a parchment-lined tray, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is There A Vegan Version Of This Recipe?

Yes, to make a vegan version, simply omit any animal products like butter or eggs. Use plant-based margarine and, if a binder is needed, use flaxseed meal mixed with water or a vegan egg substitute.