Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat are a comforting, satisfying dish that combines golden, crispy potato pancakes with a flavorful meat filling. This recipe elevates simple mashed potatoes into a full, hearty meal suitable for lunch, dinner, or even a festive gathering.
These pancakes are crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside. The savory meat adds richness, making every bite full of flavor and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect for family meals or special occasions, these pancakes are versatile. You can serve them with sour cream, a fresh salad, or even a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Potato Pancakes:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Oil for frying
For the Meat Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground beef or ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
The combination of soft mashed potatoes and seasoned meat creates a delicious contrast of textures. Chilled mashed potatoes are easier to handle and help form firm pancakes.
Fresh parsley adds a subtle brightness to the pancakes, while paprika gives the meat filling a mild smokiness and depth of flavor.
Frying the pancakes in oil creates a golden, crispy exterior, making these pancakes irresistible.
Preparing the Meat Filling
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma. Then, add the ground meat and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook the meat until fully browned, stirring occasionally to break up any clumps. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before filling the pancakes.
Preparing the Potato Pancakes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Take a portion of the potato mixture and flatten it into a small patty. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center and fold the potato around it, forming a sealed pancake.
Repeat the process until all the potato mixture and meat filling are used. Ensure each pancake is sealed properly to prevent the meat from leaking during frying.
Frying Instructions
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the pancakes in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry each pancake for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
Once fried, transfer the pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This helps keep them crispy while reducing greasiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat warm for the best taste and texture. They pair perfectly with a dollop of sour cream or a side of creamy mushroom sauce.
Add a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the pancakes and meat. Pickles or roasted vegetables also work well as a side.
For a festive touch, sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. These pancakes can also be made smaller for appetizer-sized portions.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.
You can also freeze the uncooked pancakes. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.
Leftovers can be served the next day as a quick snack, lunch, or dinner, maintaining their flavor and texture when reheated properly.
Variations and Tips
For extra flavor, mix shredded cheese into the potato mixture before forming pancakes. Cheddar or mozzarella works particularly well.
You can also experiment with different meats, like ground chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian filling with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Seasoning can be adjusted according to preference. Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can elevate the flavors and add an aromatic touch.
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat are a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these pancakes are packed with flavor and satisfying texture.
Easy to make and versatile, they are ideal for family dinners, casual meals, or festive occasions. Serve them warm with sides or sauces, and enjoy the ultimate combination of crispy potato and savory meat in every bite.
