Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese

Why You’ll Love Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese Recipe

This recipe combines the nostalgic comfort of potato pancakes with the savory satisfaction of a beef and cheese topping. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish delivers on flavor and texture. Plus, the crispy potatoes and gooey cheese make it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

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

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated

• 1 small onion, grated

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 lb ground beef

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix grated potatoes, onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet and flatten into pancakes. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in chopped parsley.

4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Arrange potato pancakes on a baking sheet. Top each with a portion of the beef mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef for extra heat.

• Different Cheese: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of lentils and vegetables.

• Mini Bites: Make smaller pancakes for bite-sized appetizers.

• Herb Upgrade: Try adding fresh thyme or chives to the potato mixture for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat for crispiness, or use the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the pancakes crispy.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal because they crisp up nicely and hold together well when grated.

Can I prepare the potato mixture ahead of time?

It’s best to cook the pancakes right after mixing to prevent the potatoes from oxidizing, but you can prep the beef topping ahead.

How do I keep the pancakes from falling apart?

Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes and use enough flour and egg to bind the mixture.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter, more colorful variation.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the cooked pancakes and beef mixture separately. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives and still pair well with cheese.

What sauce goes well with this dish?

A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a nice tangy or spicy finish.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I make it crispier?

Ensure the oil is hot before adding the pancakes and avoid overcrowding the pan for a better crisp.

Can I cook the entire dish in the oven?

You can bake the potato pancakes in the oven, but you’ll get a crispier texture if you pan-fry them first.

Conclusion

Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion—crispy, hearty, and loaded with flavor. Whether served as a main course or shared at the table, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to make and easy to customize, it’s a dependable favorite you’ll want to make again and again.