Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Crispy golden potato pancakes serve as the hearty base, while a flavorful beef mixture and melted cheese turn this recipe into a complete meal rather than just a side dish. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures: crunchy edges, soft potato centers, savory seasoned beef, and gooey cheese that ties everything together.
This recipe is versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining. It combines simple, affordable ingredients in a way that feels indulgent and filling. Whether served with sour cream, a fresh salad, or even a light vegetable side, these potato pancakes are sure to win over both kids and adults. If you enjoy classic comfort food with a twist, this savory recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
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otato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese – A Comfort Food Favorite
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy golden potato pancakes topped with a savory beef and cheese mixture, making a hearty and satisfying comfort food dish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place grated potatoes in a clean towel and squeeze out excess moisture. Transfer to a bowl and mix with grated onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Spoon potato mixture into small patties and flatten slightly. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In another skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Top each potato pancake with a spoonful of beef mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Make potato pancakes in batches to keep them crispy.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
- Can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
- Serve with sour cream or a light salad on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Potatoes – Grated potatoes form the base of the pancakes, giving them a crisp exterior and tender interior.
Onion – Adds moisture and savory depth to the potato mixture, balancing the flavors.
Eggs – Help bind the potato batter together, ensuring the pancakes hold their shape while cooking.
Flour – Provides structure and prevents the pancakes from falling apart during frying.
Ground beef – Cooked with seasonings, the beef adds heartiness and transforms the pancakes into a main course.
Cheese – Melty cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella adds richness and a creamy finish that pairs perfectly with both potato and beef.
Garlic – Enhances the savory notes of the beef filling with aromatic depth.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to highlight the natural flavors of the potatoes, beef, and cheese.
Oil for frying – Neutral cooking oil ensures the potato pancakes achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Fresh parsley (optional) – Used as a garnish for brightness and a touch of freshness.
Directions
Begin by preparing the potato pancake mixture. Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry until golden and crispy on each side, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer the pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
While the pancakes are cooking, prepare the beef filling. In a separate skillet, sauté garlic and ground beef until browned. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Once cooked, set aside.
To assemble, place a layer of potato pancakes on a plate, top with a spoonful of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Place another pancake on top, creating a savory stack. Alternatively, you can serve the pancakes side by side with beef and cheese layered over them.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley and paired with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, while cooking requires another 20–25 minutes, bringing the total time to roughly 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place pancakes on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the potato pancakes and makes them less crispy.
Variations and Customizations
Cheese lovers – Use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for extra richness.
Spicy twist – Add chili powder, paprika, or cayenne to the beef filling for a kick of heat.
Vegetable mix-in – Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots into the potato mixture for extra nutrition.
Mushroom addition – Add sautéed mushrooms to the beef filling for an earthy depth of flavor.
Herb upgrade – Mix fresh dill or chives into the potato batter for added freshness.
Open-faced style – Serve the pancakes with beef and cheese layered on top, similar to loaded nachos.
Breakfast version – Replace beef with cooked sausage and top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch.
FAQs
Can I make the potato pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook them in advance and reheat in the oven before serving.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
Can I bake instead of fry the pancakes?
Yes, though frying gives the crispiest texture. For baking, cook at 400°F until golden, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese is a hearty, flavorful recipe that transforms a simple potato dish into a satisfying main course. With its crispy exterior, savory filling, and melty cheese topping, it offers a comforting balance of textures and flavors. Easy to customize and perfect for family dinners or entertaining, this dish combines the best of classic comfort food with a creative twist. Serve hot and enjoy a meal that is as satisfying as it is delicious.