Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe

Crispy Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe: A Comforting Family Treat

Crispy golden potato cakes bursting with savory filling have been a comfort food staple in many kitchens.

These delightful stuffed potato cakes offer a perfect blend of creamy potatoes and rich, flavorful ingredients.

Each bite promises a delectable experience that warms the heart and satisfies hungry appetites.

The recipe combines simple ingredients with a touch of culinary magic.

Soft mashed potatoes embrace a hearty center, creating a delicious contrast of textures.

The exterior turns beautifully crisp when pan-fried to golden perfection.

You’ll love how these potato cakes become an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering culinary adventure that celebrates the humble potato incredible potential.

Why Stuffed Potato Cakes Are Hard to Resist

  • Each bite delivers a delightful blend of crispy potato exterior, rich beef filling, and melted cheese that creates an explosion of tastes and textures.
  • This recipe requires basic kitchen skills, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want to create something impressive without complex methods.
  • Easily adapt the recipe by switching ground beef with chicken, adding different spices, or incorporating vegetables to match personal preferences and dietary needs.
  • Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings where people enjoy hearty, handheld meals that satisfy hunger and spark conversation around the table.

Stuffed Potato Cakes: Ingredient Rundown

Main Ingredients:

Potato Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that form the crispy base and outer layer of the stuffed cakes.
  • Salt: Enhances the potato flavor and helps draw out moisture.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: Provides a rich, savory protein core for the stuffed potato cakes.
  • Onions: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness to the beef mixture.
  • Garlic: Contributes a robust and pungent flavor to the filling.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy, gooey layer that binds the stuffed potato cakes.
Seasoning and Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Helps fry the potato cakes to a golden, crispy perfection.
  • Paprika: Adds a warm, slightly sweet spice to the beef mixture.
  • Black Pepper: Provides a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Optional Garnish Ingredients:
  • Fresh Herbs, Sour Cream: Can be used to add extra freshness and creaminess when serving.

Must-Have Tools for Fluffy Stuffed Potato Cakes

  • Large Grater: Perfect for shredding potatoes quickly and evenly.
  • Frying Pan: Essential for cooking potato patties and beef mixture with even heat.
  • Mixing Bowl: Needed to season and prepare potato mixture.
  • Spatula: Great for flipping potato cakes and stirring beef mixture.
  • Sharp Knife: Used for chopping onions and preparing ingredients.
  • Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for ingredient preparation.

How to Cook Stuffed Potato Cakes with a Crispy Finish

Step 1: Prepare Potato Base

Peel and grate potatoes into a clean bowl.

Sprinkle salt over the grated potatoes and mix thoroughly.

Use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture, ensuring the potato mixture will become wonderfully crispy during cooking.

Step 2: Create Potato Patties

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Shape the potato mixture into flat, even patties using your hands.

Carefully place each patty into the hot oil, cooking until golden and crisp on both sides.

Transfer cooked potato patties to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Flavorful Beef Filling

In the same skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.

Add the following ingredients:
  • Chopped onions
  • Minced garlic
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir and cook the mixture until onions become soft and translucent, releasing a delicious aroma.

Step 4: Layer And Assemble Potato Sandwiches

Place one potato patty on a clean surface.

Spread a generous layer of the beef mixture over the patty.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef.

Carefully place another potato patty on top, pressing edges to seal completely.

Step 5: Crisp And Melt The Potato Sandwiches

Return the assembled potato sandwiches to the skillet.

Fry each side until deep golden brown and crispy.

Ensure the cheese melts completely, creating a gooey interior.

Step 6: Serve And Garnish

Transfer the hot potato sandwiches to serving plates.

Optional garnishes include:
  • Fresh chopped parsley
  • Sour cream
  • Chives

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, beef-filled potato cakes while they’re hot and irresistible!

Potato Cake Tips for a Creamy Center

  • Remove excess water from grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to guarantee crispy, golden-brown potato cakes that won't become soggy.
  • Select ground beef with lower fat content to prevent greasy potato cakes and maintain a balanced, healthier dish that still delivers rich flavor.
  • Press potato patty edges firmly when assembling to prevent filling from leaking during frying, ensuring a perfect seal and preventing oil splatter.
  • Maintain medium heat while frying to achieve an evenly crisp exterior without burning the potato cakes, creating a beautiful golden-brown color and crunchy texture.
  • Try different cheese varieties like mozzarella, monterey jack, or pepper jack to add unique flavor profiles and create exciting taste variations in your stuffed potato cakes.

Potato Cake Variations to Keep Things Interesting

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a protein-packed meatless version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free potato starch or cornstarch to bind the potato patties and ensure crispy texture.
  • Spicy Southwest Spin: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Incorporate feta cheese, chopped spinach, and oregano into the potato mixture for a Greek-style potato cake.

Serving Stuffed Potato Cakes at Any Meal

  • Flavor Fusion Plate: Pair the stuffed potato cakes with a zesty salsa or tangy tzatziki sauce for an extra flavor kick that complements the rich beef and cheese.
  • Brunch Brilliance: Serve alongside a sunny-side-up egg or scrambled eggs to transform these potato cakes into a hearty weekend brunch centerpiece that's sure to impress.
  • Veggie Companion: Add a fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the potato cakes and provide a crisp contrast.
  • Quick Dip Delight: Prepare a quick homemade ranch or garlic aioli dip that guests can use to enhance the crispy exterior and add an extra layer of creamy goodness.

Potato Cake Storage for Easy Reheating

  • Store stuffed potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their crispy texture.
  • Wrap each potato cake individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Place potato cakes on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy edges return.

FAQs

  • Are the potatoes the main ingredient?

Yes, grated potatoes form the base of these crispy potato cakes, creating a delicious golden exterior that holds the savory beef and cheese filling.

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lamb work great as alternatives to beef, offering similar flavor profiles and maintaining the recipe’s core technique.

  • How do I prevent the potato cakes from falling apart?

Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes and ensure you press the edges firmly when assembling to create a tight seal that prevents the filling from leaking during frying.

  • What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is recommended for its sharp flavor and excellent melting properties, but you can also use mozzarella, monterey jack, or a blend of cheeses for variety.

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Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe

Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe


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4.5 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Polish pierogi with potato and cheese filling offer a delightful culinary journey through traditional Eastern European comfort cuisine. Crispy exterior and creamy interior make these hand-crafted parcels a perfect hearty meal you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredient:

  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes by peeling and grating them into fine shreds. Transfer to a mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel, ensuring the potato mixture will become crisp during cooking.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F). Carefully shape the potato mixture into flat, even patties using your hands. Gently place the patties into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden, crispy exterior.
  3. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains. Add diced onions, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté the mixture for 5-6 minutes until the onions become translucent and release their aromatic flavors.
  4. Create potato cake sandwiches by spreading a layer of the beef mixture onto one potato patty. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the meat. Top with another potato patty, pressing and sealing the edges to create a complete stuffed cake.
  5. Return the stuffed potato cakes to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side. Ensure the cheese melts completely and the exterior becomes crisp and golden brown.
  6. Transfer the finished potato cakes to a serving plate. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a side of sour cream. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Gently squeeze grated potatoes to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispy exterior without sogginess.
  • Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to drain potatoes, pressing firmly to extract maximum liquid.
  • Add breadcrumbs or flour to potato mixture for extra binding and crispier texture if needed.
  • Experiment with alternative protein options like ground turkey, plant-based crumbles, or mushrooms for dietary variations.
  • Keep potato patties uniform in size for consistent cooking and professional presentation.
  • Allow stuffed potato cakes to rest briefly after frying to help them hold together and develop deeper flavors.
  • Choose waxy potato varieties like Yukon Gold for better structure and smoother texture.
  • Control oil temperature around 350-375°F to prevent burning while achieving golden-brown crispiness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Appetizer, Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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