Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes the humble mashed potato to a whole new level by turning it into a crispy pancake with a rich and savory filling. The mashed potato dough provides a fluffy, soft interior, while the ground beef filling adds a savory kick. The result is a satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and make something extraordinary with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Dough:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes, cold or warm
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2–3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese or chopped chives for extra flavor

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, flour or breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-combined. If you’re using cheddar cheese or chives, fold them into the mixture for extra flavor.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat a small amount of oil for frying.
3. Scoop out a small portion of the mashed potato dough (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a patty shape.
4. Add a spoonful of the ground beef filling (recipe below) into the center of the potato patty, and carefully fold the edges of the potato dough around the filling to form a sealed pancake.
5. Place the filled potato pancake in the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Repeat with the remaining mashed potato dough and beef filling.
7. Serve the pancakes warm, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with a vegetable filling like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of roasted veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Cheese Stuffed: For a cheesy twist, stuff the pancakes with mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a gooey surprise inside.
• Herb Variations: Add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the mashed potato dough for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover mashed potato pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pancakes in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, this is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they are fully cooled before using them to make the dough.

Can I freeze these mashed potato pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze the pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.

What kind of ground beef should I use for the filling?

You can use any ground beef, but lean beef (90% or higher) works best for a slightly healthier option. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use ground chuck.

Can I add other fillings to these pancakes?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed onions, garlic, or even shredded cheese to the ground beef filling for extra flavor.

Can I make these pancakes without eggs?

Yes, you can use a flax egg or a simple mixture of 2 tablespoons of water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch as a substitute for the egg in the dough.

How do I make sure the pancakes hold together while frying?

Be sure to seal the edges of the pancake tightly around the filling to prevent any leakage while frying. If the dough feels too soft, you can add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to firm it up.

What can I serve with these mashed potato pancakes?

These pancakes are great on their own but can be served with sour cream, ketchup, or a tangy dipping sauce. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables also makes a great pairing.

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pancakes in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day before frying them. Just let them come to room temperature before cooking.

Can I make these pancakes in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the pancakes on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.

Can I use other types of potato for this recipe?

While russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potato pancakes, you can also use Yukon gold potatoes or other starchy potatoes for a different texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are a comforting and satisfying dish that combines crispy textures with savory, hearty fillings. These pancakes are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes and making a meal that’s both filling and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or a full meal, these pancakes will become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy the crispy, golden goodness!

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