Introduction
Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes with Savory Meat Filling are the perfect example of turning simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying. This recipe is especially close to my heart because it is a brilliant way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a completely new and exciting dish. The contrast between the golden, crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior makes every bite rewarding. The seasoned meat filling adds richness and depth, while the potato pancakes provide comfort and familiarity. I often prepare these when I want something hearty yet versatile, as they work equally well as a main dish, a side, or even a snack. They are also ideal for family meals because they are filling, affordable, and universally appealing. With the right balance of texture and flavor, these pancakes deliver comfort food at its finest while remaining practical and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is economical, satisfying, and highly adaptable. It delivers crisp texture, savory flavor, and is an excellent way to reduce food waste while creating a meal everyone enjoys.
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Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes with Savory Meat Filling
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Golden and crispy mashed potato pancakes stuffed with a flavorful savory pork filling, pan-fried to perfection for a hearty and comforting meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (cold)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for dough)
- 8 oz ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (for filling)
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, parsley, and oil until a soft dough forms.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground pork until browned.
- Add onion and garlic to the pork and sauté until softened.
- Season with thyme, salt, and black pepper; cook for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Divide potato dough into equal portions and flatten into discs.
- Place a spoonful of meat filling in the center of each disc.
- Fold and seal, shaping into pancakes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry pancakes until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
- Cold mashed potatoes work best for shaping.
- Do not overfill to prevent bursting while frying.
- Serve with sour cream or mustard for dipping.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes form the base of the pancakes. They should be thick and well-seasoned to ensure the pancakes hold their shape and develop a crisp crust when fried.
Ground Pork
Ground pork provides a juicy, flavorful filling that pairs exceptionally well with potatoes. Its natural richness enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
Onion
Onion adds sweetness and depth to the meat filling, balancing the richness of the pork.
Garlic
Garlic intensifies the savory notes and brings aromatic warmth to the filling.
Eggs
Eggs help bind the mashed potatoes, giving structure and stability to the pancakes during cooking.
All-Purpose Flour
Flour improves consistency and helps the pancakes maintain their shape while frying.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in both the potato mixture and the meat filling.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and balances the richness of the pork.
Paprika
Paprika contributes mild warmth and color without overpowering the dish.
Cooking Oil
Oil is essential for frying, ensuring a crisp, golden exterior.
Fresh Parsley
Parsley adds a fresh finish and light contrast to the savory pancakes.
Directions
Begin by preparing the meat filling. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and cohesive. Take a portion of the potato mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center, then cover with more potato mixture and gently shape into a pancake.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the pancakes in batches, cooking for three to four minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately eight pancakes, serving four people. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the exterior.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable and allows for many creative variations. Ground beef, chicken, or turkey can replace pork with excellent results. For a vegetarian version, sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or seasoned vegetables can be used as filling.
Cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar can be added to the filling for extra richness. Herbs like dill or chives blend well into the potato mixture for added freshness. For a spicier profile, a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne can be incorporated into the meat filling.
The pancakes may also be baked instead of fried for a lighter version, though the texture will be slightly less crisp. These adjustments make the recipe flexible while maintaining its comforting character.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
These pancakes provide carbohydrates from potatoes and protein from pork, making them a filling meal. They are best enjoyed in moderation. Lean meat and minimal oil can be used to reduce overall fat content.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Proper Chilling
Cool the filling before shaping to prevent breaking.
Oil Temperature
Maintain medium heat to ensure even browning without burning.
Uniform Size
Keep pancakes similar in size for consistent cooking.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe.
Can these pancakes be frozen?
Yes, freeze cooked pancakes and reheat in the oven when needed.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils with high smoke points work best.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, they can be shaped and refrigerated before frying.
How do I keep them from falling apart?
Ensure the potato mixture is thick and well bound with egg and flour.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, baking is possible, though crispness will be reduced.
What sauce pairs well with this dish?
Sour cream or a light garlic sauce pairs well.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Are they suitable for children?
Yes, the flavors are mild and family-friendly.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, cheese adds richness and melts beautifully inside.
Conclusion
Crispy Mashed Potato Pancakes with Savory Meat Filling are a comforting, versatile dish that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. With their golden exterior and flavorful center, they deliver satisfaction in every bite. This recipe is practical, adaptable, and ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.
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