Bubble & Squeak Cakes Recipe | Crispy Bubble & Squeak with Fried Eggs on a Plancha BBQ

🥓 Crispy Bubble & Squeak Cakes with Fried Eggs on a Plancha BBQ

Bubble and squeak is one of Britain's best-loved comfort foods, traditionally made with leftover mashed potatoes and vegetables from a Sunday roast. Cooking it on a plancha BBQ creates wonderfully crisp, golden cakes while keeping the centre soft and fluffy.

Finished with crispy back bacon and perfectly fried free-range eggs, this outdoor version transforms simple leftovers into a satisfying breakfast or brunch. It's economical, packed with flavour and a brilliant way to reduce food waste while making the most of your barbecue.

Whether you're cooking for family after a Sunday roast or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch in the garden, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favourite.

📝 Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Serves: 4

Difficulty: Easy

🛒 Ingredients

For the Bubble & Squeak

  • 600g leftover mashed potatoes
  • 300g cooked cabbage, finely chopped
  • 150g cooked carrots, diced
  • 2 spring onions, finely sliced
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 2 tbsp plain flour
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

To Serve

  • 4 free-range eggs
  • 8 rashers smoked back bacon
  • Brown sauce (optional)
  • Fresh chives

🔥 Equipment Needed

  • Plancha BBQ
  • BBQ spatula
  • BBQ tongs
  • Mixing bowl

👨🍳 Method

Step 1 – Make the bubble & squeak mixture

Combine the mashed potatoes, cabbage, carrots, spring onions, parsley and flour.

Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Shape into eight thick patties.

Step 2 – Heat the plancha

Preheat the plancha BBQ to a medium-high heat.

Lightly oil the cooking surface.

Step 3 – Cook the cakes

Place the patties onto the hot plancha.

Cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4 – Cook the bacon

Move the cakes to one side of the plancha.

Cook the bacon until crisp.

Step 5 – Fry the eggs

Crack the eggs directly onto the plancha.

Cook until the whites are set and the yolks remain runny.

Step 6 – Serve

Top each bubble and squeak cake with crispy bacon and a fried egg.

Scatter over fresh chives and serve immediately with brown sauce if desired.

💡 Cooking Tips

  • Cold leftover mash makes the cakes easier to shape.
  • Don't flip the cakes too early or they may break apart.
  • Use a wide spatula for turning.
  • Cook over medium heat to develop a crisp crust without burning.
  • Add leftover sprouts or parsnips for extra flavour.

🌟 Delicious Variations

Black Pudding Bubble & Squeak

Serve with grilled black pudding slices.

Cheese & Chive Cakes

Mix grated mature Cheddar into the potato mixture.

Vegetarian Brunch

Skip the bacon and top with grilled halloumi.

Boxing Day Bubble & Squeak

Use leftover roast vegetables and turkey.

Smoked Salmon Version

Replace the bacon with smoked salmon and a poached egg.

🍽️ What to Serve with Bubble & Squeak

This recipe pairs wonderfully with:

  • Baked beans
  • Grilled tomatoes
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Buttered sourdough
  • Brown sauce
  • Tomato chutney
  • Fresh fruit juice
  • Tea or coffee

🥡 Storage & Leftovers

Store cooked bubble and squeak cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat on the plancha until hot and crisp before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is bubble and squeak?

Bubble and squeak is a traditional British dish made from leftover mashed potatoes and cooked vegetables, pan-fried until crispy.

Can I make it without leftovers?

Absolutely. Simply cook and mash fresh potatoes and lightly steam your vegetables before mixing.

Why use a plancha BBQ?

The flat cooking surface creates an even, crispy crust while allowing you to cook the bacon and eggs alongside.

Can I freeze the cakes?

Yes. Freeze them before cooking for up to 3 months.

Which vegetables work best?

Cabbage is traditional, but sprouts, carrots, peas and parsnips are all excellent additions.

🛍️ Shop the Equipment at Sal's Place

A plancha BBQ is ideal for classic British breakfasts and brunches, giving you a generous cooking surface for everything from crispy potato cakes to bacon and eggs.

🔗 Explore Plancha BBQs at Sal's Place

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Turn simple leftovers into a delicious outdoor brunch and discover just how versatile your plancha BBQ can be.