These Potato Cheese Pancakes are everything you love about crispy potato dishes—golden brown, crunchy on the outside, and filled with gooey, stretchy cheese. They’re easy to make and require just a handful of pantry staples, making them the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Whether you serve them as a brunch dish, a satisfying snack, or a delicious side, these pancakes are sure to impress. The combination of crispy fried potatoes and melted cheese is simply irresistible! Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice, and enjoy the ultimate savory treat.
Full Recipe:
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (e.g., peanut oil)
Directions:
- Boil potato chunks in salted water until fork-tender, then drain.
- Mash the potatoes while still hot using a fork, potato ricer, or masher until smooth.
- Mix in the flour, sugar, salt, and black pepper until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. If too wet, add a little more flour.
- Take about two scoops of the mixture and form a disc in your floured hands.
- Place a teaspoon of chopped Mozzarella cheese in the center, then roll into a ball.
- Slightly flatten the ball into a pancake shape and coat with flour.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture to make about 9 pancakes.
- Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
- Cook each pancake for about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel and serve immediately while warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per pancake | Servings: 9 pancakes
The Ultimate Guide to Making Crispy and Cheesy Potato Pancakes
Potato Cheese Pancakes are a delightful combination of crispy golden potatoes and gooey, melted cheese. This dish is a favorite comfort food across many cultures, offering a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a satisfying brunch option, or a delicious side dish, these pancakes are an excellent choice.
What Makes These Potato Cheese Pancakes Special?
Unlike traditional potato pancakes, which are often just grated or mashed potatoes fried to perfection, this version takes it up a notch by adding a cheesy surprise inside. The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a stretchy and satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior. The addition of a hint of sugar in the dough, inspired by Korean-style pancakes, enhances the savory flavor without making it sweet.
The simplicity of this dish is another reason it’s so popular. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just some potatoes, cheese, flour, and seasonings from your pantry. It’s an accessible recipe that anyone can whip up in a short amount of time.
A Popular Dish Around the World
Potato pancakes are beloved in various cuisines, each with its own twist. In Eastern Europe, dishes like Polish placki ziemniaczane or Jewish latkes are often served with sour cream or applesauce. The Swiss have rösti, which are more like hash browns but equally crispy. Korean hotteok, though usually a sweet pancake, has a savory variation with cheese and potatoes. This particular recipe leans more towards Italian flavors with its use of mozzarella, making it a unique fusion dish that anyone can enjoy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cheesy potato pancakes are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a:
- Brunch dish: A fun alternative to classic hash browns, paired with eggs and fresh salad.
- Snack or appetizer: Serve with a dipping sauce like sour cream, garlic aioli, or marinara.
- Side dish: Goes great with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a simple soup.
They’re also a great option for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store them in the freezer, reheating them for a quick and delicious meal when needed.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
The key to getting the best potato cheese pancakes lies in a few simple techniques:
- Use the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best because they mash well and provide a light, fluffy texture.
- Mash while hot: Hot mashed potatoes blend better with flour and seasonings, creating a smooth and cohesive dough.
- Don’t skip the flour: It helps bind the ingredients together, preventing the pancakes from falling apart during cooking.
- Choose the right cheese: Mozzarella is a great choice because of its stretchy melt, but you can experiment with cheddar, gouda, or even brie for different flavors.
- Control the heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures an even golden-brown crust without burning the outside before the cheese inside melts.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic mozzarella-filled version is already irresistible, you can get creative with different variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a little heat.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic Butter Upgrade: Brush the pancakes with garlic butter after frying for a richer taste.
- Loaded Pancakes: Mix in crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions for an even more indulgent treat.
- Vegan Option: Replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use chickpea flour instead of regular flour.
Pairing Suggestions for the Best Experience
To make these potato cheese pancakes even more enjoyable, consider serving them with complementary sides and condiments:
- Classic Sour Cream & Chives: A tangy contrast to the crispy and cheesy interior.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Adds a bit of heat and creaminess.
- Fresh Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon dressing balances out the richness.
- Tomato-Based Dipping Sauce: Think marinara or roasted red pepper sauce for an Italian twist.
These pairings elevate the dish and make it suitable for a variety of tastes and preferences.
How to Store and Reheat Potato Cheese Pancakes
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they disappear quickly!), you can easily store and reheat them:
- In the refrigerator: Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to bring back the crispiness.
- In the freezer: Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for an hour, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months.
- Reheating options: The best way to reheat is in a skillet with a little oil. You can also use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Crispy outside, gooey inside—a perfect combination.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, making it budget-friendly.
- Versatile: Works as breakfast, snack, or side dish.
- Customizable: Adaptable to different flavors and dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Potato Cheese Pancakes are a true comfort food that brings joy with every bite. The crisp golden crust paired with the rich, melted cheese filling makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion. They’re easy to make, require only a handful of ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and crispy, give these Potato Cheese Pancakes a try—you won’t regret it!