Potato Pancakes Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Easy to Make

this RECIPE

Potato pancakes hold a special place in our hearts. They’re comfort food, nostalgia, and culinary magic all rolled into one! Whether you’re looking to use up leftover mashed potatoes or whip up something satisfying for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this potato pancake recipe is a must-try.

The crispiness on the outside, the tender center, and the rich, cheesy, bacon-filled goodness make these pancakes an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how you can make these at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Crispy Texture: Golden-brown on the outside, fluffy and cheesy on the inside.
2. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and leftover mashed potatoes.
3. Versatile: Great as a side dish, appetizer, or main course.
4. Bacon Lovers’ Dream: Bacon drippings add a smoky flavor that takes these pancakes to the next level.
5. Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients for Potato Pancake

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 cups cold mashed potatoes (leftovers work best!)
• 5 slices bacon (crispy and crumbled)
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 eggs (well-beaten for binding)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Necessary Tools

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons

How to Make Potato Pancakes

1. Cook the Bacon:
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon slices, crumble them, and set aside. Reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet for frying.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Form the Patties:
   Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties.
4. Fry the Pancakes:
   Heat the bacon drippings over medium heat. Fry the patties in the skillet until crispy and golden-brown on each side, about 4 minutes per side.

What to Serve with Potato Pancakes

These potato pancakes pair beautifully with:

• Sour cream: For a tangy kick.
• Applesauce: A classic pairing with a sweet contrast.
• Salad greens: For a fresh, light complement.
• Fried eggs: Make it a hearty breakfast!

Tips for Perfect Potato Pancakes

• Cold Mashed Potatoes: The colder and firmer, the better for forming sturdy patties.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to ensure each pancake crisps up beautifully.
• Extra Toppings: Add green onions, parsley, or a dollop of spicy mayo for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for crispy results.
• Freezer: Flash-freeze cooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Substitutions:

• Bacon Alternatives: Swap bacon for turkey bacon, prosciutto, or even plant-based bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Cheese Options: Not a cheddar fan? Try Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Seasoning Swaps: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for a flavor boost.

Additions:

• Veggies: Finely dice bell peppers, green onions, or spinach to mix into the batter.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or thyme can bring brightness to the dish.
• Heat: Love spice? Stir in some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Get creative and make this recipe uniquely yours! Don’t be afraid to experiment—it’s hard to go wrong with crispy potatoes and cheese.

Fun Serving Ideas

These potato pancakes are delicious on their own, but why not get creative with how you serve them? Here are some fun ideas to take your presentation to the next level:

For Breakfast or Brunch:

• Top with a perfectly fried egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for a rich, indulgent treat.
• Pair with smoked salmon and a dollop of cream cheese for a sophisticated twist.

As a Snack or Appetizer:

• Serve mini-sized pancakes with a side of spicy ketchup or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Stack them with thin slices of avocado and tomato for a bite-sized slider.

As a Main Course:

• Create a loaded pancake platter with sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced, hearty meal.

The possibilities are endless—these pancakes are the ultimate canvas for your culinary imagination!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for frying.

Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Cheddar is classic, but gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack add great flavor!

Conclusion

These potato pancakes are everything you want in a comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor! They’re quick to make, easy to love, and versatile enough for any meal. Whether you’re savoring them with sour cream or pairing them with eggs, they’re bound to be a hit.

Have you tried these yet? Let me know in the comments below and share your creations on Pinterest! Don’t forget to subscribe for more irresistible recipes.

Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)

• Calories: 215
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g

Looking for more potato-inspired recipes? Check out these favorites:

• Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
• Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
• Twice-Baked Cheesy Potatoes

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