Potato Pancakes with Cheese and Mashed Potatoes: A Comforting Twist
Potato pancakes with cheese and mashed potatoes take the traditional potato pancake to a whole new level.
By incorporating creamy mashed potatoes into the batter, these pancakes achieve a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the addition of cheese adds a savory richness that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups cold mashed potatoes (leftovers are fine too).
Use 1/2 to 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, depending on how much water is in your potatoes.
1 or 2 large eggs (depending on the desired consistency).
1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses you like.
Sal y pimienta al gusto.
Optional ingredients: freshly chopped potatoes, pulverized ajo, finely chopped cebolla.
Oil or butter for frying.
Directions
Make the mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, eggs, cheese, and any seasonings or additional ingredients.
Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to be able to make pancakes.
Making cakes: Toma poco de la mezcla de papas y haz una tortita redonda de approximadamente 1/2 pulgada de grosor.
Hornear pasteles: Heat a little oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Fry the tortitas for 3 to 4 minutes each time until they are golden and crusty.
Ayudar o assistir a alguien.
Sirve las tortitas de papa calientes, con queso extra o hierbas frescas si lo prefieres.
Final thoughts
The mashed potato croquetas with cheese are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the mashed potato toppings, turning them into a new and exciting dish.
With their crispy crust and soft, cheese-filled interior, these cakes will please those who love comfort foods and deliciousness.
Serve them with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Tips
Perfect Texture: Use cold, firm mashed potatoes for the best results, as they hold their shape better when forming the pancakes.
Add just enough flour or breadcrumbs to bind the mixture, ensuring the pancakes are tender and not too dense.
Achieve Crispiness: Fry the pancakes in a hot skillet with a thin layer of oil.
Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil’s temperature and lead to soggy pancakes.
Cook over medium heat to ensure a crispy exterior and a fully warmed interior.
Variations
Loaded Pancakes: Add cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or shredded carrots to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder can also elevate the taste.
Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for unique flavors. For a spicy kick, try pepper jack cheese.
How to Store
Refrigerating: Allow the pancakes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore their crispiness.
Freezing: For longer storage, lay the pancakes flat on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or a hot skillet for the best results.
Here are some serving suggestions for your potato pancakes:
Classic Toppings:
Sour cream & chives – A creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy pancakes.
Applesauce – A traditional sweet-and-savory pairing.
Greek yogurt – A lighter alternative to sour cream.
Savory Options:
Smoked salmon & cream cheese – A luxurious topping with fresh dill.
Fried or poached eggs – Turn them into a hearty breakfast.
Avocado & hot sauce – A modern twist with creamy and spicy flavors.
Grated cheese & crispy bacon – Melt cheese on top and add crumbled bacon for extra richness.
Dips & Sauces:
Garlic aioli – A flavorful, garlicky dip.
Spicy ketchup or Sriracha mayo – A zesty kick.
Mushroom gravy – Great for a comforting meal.
Side Pairings:
Grilled vegetables – A healthy, colorful addition.
Fresh salad – Lightens up the dish with greens and vinaigrette.
Soup – Serve with tomato soup or a creamy bisque for a cozy meal.
Would you like suggestions for a specific occasion or dietary preference?