Potato Pancakes with Beef and Cheese

Name: Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying); 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice); Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

By Jane DoeMarch 21, 2025No Comments6 Mins Read

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These Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese are a deliciously hearty and comforting meal, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Crispy potato pancakes serve as the base for seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. Easy to make and packed with savory goodness, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite.

A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist

Potato pancakes have been a beloved dish across many cultures, often enjoyed as a simple and crispy delight. This version elevates the classic recipe by adding a hearty beef topping and melted cheese, making it a complete meal in itself. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a satisfying weekend brunch, this dish delivers in both flavor and texture.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course for a filling dinner, or pair it with eggs for a luxurious brunch. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ground beef or experiment with different cheese varieties. The combination of crispy potatoes, seasoned meat, and gooey cheese is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy and flavorful – The combination of crunchy potato pancakes with savory beef and cheese is irresistible.
Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
Easy to customize – Swap out the beef for turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative.
Quick to prepare – Ready in about 35 minutes, making it a great meal option for busy days.
Kid-friendly – A fun and tasty dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Potato Pancakes:

4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 large egg
1/4 cup flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Savory Beef Topping:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Potato Pancakes:

Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely chopped onion, egg, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Fry the Potato Pancakes:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten it into a pancake shape.
Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Prepare the Savory Beef Topping:

In the same skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned (about 6-8 minutes).
Drain any excess fat, then season with oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Assemble the Dish:

Place the cooked potato pancakes on serving plates.
Top each pancake with a spoonful of the savory beef mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef and allow it to melt by covering the skillet for a minute or microwaving briefly.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Protein Swap – Use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative.
Cheese Options – Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Spicy Kick – Add chili flakes or jalapeños for some heat.
Vegetarian Version – Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms or a meat alternative.
Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour alternative.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the potato pancakes separately from the beef mixture in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep potato pancakes crispy?

Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes before cooking and fry them in hot oil.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the components separately and reheat when ready to serve.

What other toppings work well with these pancakes?

Sour cream, avocado, or a fried egg can add extra flavor.

Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best type of potato to use?

Russet potatoes work best as they have a high starch content, making them crispy.

Can I bake the potato pancakes instead of frying them?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make this dish lower in calories?

Use lean ground turkey and bake the pancakes instead of frying.

Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions.

What’s a good cheese substitute for a dairy-free option?

Use dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I serve these pancakes without the beef topping?

Yes, they are delicious on their own or with a simple yogurt or sour cream topping.

Conclusion

Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any meal of the day. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to customize, this recipe is a surefire way to impress family and friends. Whether you stick to the original version or try one of the variations, these hearty pancakes are bound to become a household favorite!