Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese are a comforting and flavorful dish that combines classic potato pancakes with a rich, cheesy beef filling. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish offers a satisfying crunch paired with a hearty, savory center. Whether you’re looking for a cozy homemade meal or a unique appetizer to impress guests, these potato pancakes are sure to be a hit. Plus, they are easy to customize with different seasonings, cheeses, and toppings to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Potato pancakes with savory beef and cheese are the perfect blend of crispy, golden potatoes and rich, flavorful beef filling. The combination of creamy melted cheese and seasoned beef creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether served as a main course or a hearty appetizer, these pancakes are sure to impress with their texture and taste. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different toppings and seasonings!
Ingredients
For the Potato Pancakes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Beef and Cheese Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ pound (225g) ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
Directions
- Prepare the Potato Pancakes:
- Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
- Cook the Beef Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese.
- Fry the Potato Pancakes:
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening it into a round shape.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Place one potato pancake on a plate, add a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture, and top with another pancake.
- Serve warm with sour cream or a dipping sauce of choice.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef filling.
- Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or pepper jack.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of black beans and corn.
- Herb Infused: Mix fresh chopped parsley or chives into the potato batter for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make the potato pancakes in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for a few hours before frying.
What’s the best potato type for pancakes?
Russet potatoes work best due to their high starch content, making the pancakes crispier.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes! Brush the pancakes with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
What can I serve with these pancakes?
They pair well with sour cream, garlic aioli, or a simple yogurt-based dipping sauce.
Conclusion
Potato pancakes with savory beef and cheese are a crispy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, their combination of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more. Try different variations and serve them with your favorite toppings for a delicious twist!
More Delicious Recipes to Try
If you loved these Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese, you might also enjoy these flavorful dishes from our collection:
- For a creamy and satisfying dinner, try this One-Pot Zesty Steak Pasta, packed with bold flavors.
- If you’re in the mood for a comforting meal, this Braised Beef in Sauce with Homemade Purée is a must-try.
- For a cheesy, beefy delight, don’t miss this Loaded Beef Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta.
- Looking for a creative twist on Italian flavors? This Tagliatelle with Grape and Beef Sauce is a unique and delicious option.
- If you love crispy bites, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a perfect complement to your meal.
Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Grater
- Frying Pan
- Spatula
- Paper Towels
Ingredients
Potato Pancakes
- 4 large potatoes peeled and grated
- 1 small onion finely grated
- 2 eggs
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp paprika optional
- vegetable oil for frying
Beef and Cheese Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 lb ground beef
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella
Instructions
- Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening it into a round shape.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Place one potato pancake on a plate, add a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture, and top with another pancake.
- Serve warm with sour cream or a dipping sauce of choice.