Potato Cheese Pancakes: A Comforting Snack Recipe

Looking for a delightful twist on traditional pancakes? Try our Potato Cheese Pancakes! Combining the comforting taste of mashed potatoes with the gooey goodness of melted cheese, these pancakes are perfect for any meal or as a hearty snack. They’re easy to make and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

To make these savory pancakes, you will need:

500 g (1 pound) potatoes, peeled and cubed

90 g (3/4 cup) all-purpose flour, plus more for coating
4 g (1 tsp) sugar (optional)
Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste
Mozzarella cheese or other stretchy cheese (e.g., Cheddar, Swiss), chopped
Oil for cooking (e.g., peanut oil)

Instructions

Prepare Potatoes:

Peel the potatoes and chop them into medium-sized chunks.
Boil the potato chunks in salted water until they are fork-tender, or you can opt to steam them.

Mash Potatoes: 3. Immediately while still hot, mash the potatoes using a fork, potato ricer, or potato masher until they are smooth and creamy.

Make Pancake Mixture: 4. Add flour, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix until you achieve a non-sticky and slightly dry but still soft mixture. Adjust with more flour if the mixture is too wet.

Form Pancakes: 5. Use a 4 cm (1.5 inch) ice cream scooper to take two scoops of the mashed potato mixture.

Flour your hands well to avoid sticking and form each scoop into a disc.
Place about 1 tsp of chopped cheese in the center of each disc.
Roll the edges over the cheese, forming a ball, then slightly flatten it into a pancake shape.

Coat every side of the pancake with some flour and place on a dish lined with parchment paper or well-floured to avoid sticking.
Repeat this process until all the mashed potato mixture is used, yielding about 9 pancakes.

Cook Pancakes: 11. Heat a large non-stick pan with about 2 tbsp of vegetable oil (peanut oil recommended) over medium heat.

Cook each pancake for about 5 minutes on each side or until evenly browned.

Serve: 13. Drain the pancakes on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve immediately while warm and crispy for the best texture.

Tips for Success

Ensure the potatoes are well-drained and mashed while hot to get a smooth texture that’s easy to work with.
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs such as chives or parsley to the potato mixture.
The cheese can be varied according to preference; try combinations like sharp cheddar for more bite or Swiss for a milder taste.

Health Benefits

Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber, especially when the skin is left on. By pairing them with cheese, you also add calcium and protein, making these pancakes not just tasty but also nutritious.

FAQs

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the pancakes and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in a pan for best results.

What’s the best way to serve these pancakes?
- These pancakes are great on their own or with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Can I bake these pancakes instead of frying?
- Absolutely! For a healthier option, bake the pancakes at 200°C (400°F) until they’re golden and crispy, about 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Potato Cheese Pancakes are a versatile and satisfying option that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They’re quick to whip up, delightful to eat, and a sure way to bring smiles to your dining table. Give this recipe a try and indulge in the cozy comfort of homemade pancakes!