These Mozzarella Stuffed Potato Pancakes are a deliciously crispy treat with a creamy, cheesy center. The soft mashed potatoes are seasoned and stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, making every bite a perfect blend of savory and creamy. These pancakes are a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or snack and are incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a comfort food classic or something new to add to your menu, these cheesy potato pancakes will surely impress.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 9 pancakes
Cuisine This recipe draws inspiration from traditional comfort foods, combining the simplicity of mashed potatoes with the delicious meltiness of mozzarella cheese. It brings together the flavors of Italian cuisine with a comforting, crispy texture.
Full List of Ingredients
- 500 g (1 pound) potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 90 g (3/4 cup) all-purpose flour, plus extra for coating
- 4 g (1 tsp) sugar (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Mozzarella cheese or other stretchy cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or gouda
- Oil for cooking (peanut oil or vegetable oil works well)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and chop them into medium-sized chunks.
- Place the potato chunks in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can steam the potatoes if you prefer.
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Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and mash them immediately while they are still hot. Use a potato masher, fork, or potato ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
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Make the Potato Dough:
- To the mashed potatoes, add 90g of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp sugar (optional), salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Mix everything together until you have a slightly dry but soft mixture that is not too sticky. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour to achieve the right consistency.
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Form the Pancakes:
- Lightly flour your hands to avoid the mixture sticking to them. Use a 4cm (1.5-inch) ice cream scooper to scoop out the mashed potato mixture.
- Take two scoops of the mixture and flatten it into a disc. Place about 1 teaspoon of chopped mozzarella cheese in the center of the disc and gently fold the edges over to form a ball. Press down slightly to flatten the ball into a pancake shape.
- Coat every side of the pancake with flour and place it on a dish lined with parchment paper or a well-floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Repeat this process until you have used up all the mashed potato mixture. This should yield about 9 potato pancakes.
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Fry the Pancakes:
- Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil (peanut oil or vegetable oil) in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato pancakes in the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once the pancakes are done, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Serve:
- Serve the Mozzarella Stuffed Potato Pancakes immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They make a perfect side dish, snack, or appetizer. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe Potato pancakes are a beloved dish in many cultures, with each country adding its own unique twist. In Eastern European cuisine, they are often made with grated potatoes and fried to crispy perfection. This recipe combines the classic potato pancake with the irresistible stretchiness of mozzarella cheese, creating a dish that is both familiar and exciting. The addition of cheese adds a rich, creamy element that elevates the simple potato into something truly indulgent.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy: The crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior make every bite a savory, satisfying experience.
- Quick and Easy: These pancakes come together in less than an hour, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or party snack.
- Comforting: The combination of mashed potatoes and cheese is a comforting classic that never goes out of style.
- Customizable: You can use different types of cheese or add herbs to the mixture to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Potassium: Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle function.
- High in Protein: The mozzarella cheese and eggs provide protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
- Good Source of Fiber: The potatoes provide fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side of Salad: Pair these crispy potato pancakes with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a dipping sauce like sour cream, tzatziki, or even a spicy tomato sauce for added flavor.
- As an Appetizer: These pancakes make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or family parties, served with a variety of dips.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overmix the Potatoes: When mixing the mashed potatoes with the flour and seasonings, be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense texture.
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: For the best melt and texture, use fresh mozzarella cheese. If using shredded cheese, make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.
- Ensure the Oil is Hot: Before adding the pancakes to the pan, make sure the oil is hot enough. This ensures a crispy texture and prevents the pancakes from absorbing too much oil.
Variations to Try
- Add Herbs: For extra flavor, mix fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme into the mashed potato mixture.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese and a flax egg substitute instead of the regular egg.
Conclusion These Mozzarella Stuffed Potato Pancakes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese and a crispy exterior. They are simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these pancakes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make these pancakes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pancakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet to restore their crispiness.
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Can I freeze these pancakes? Yes, you can freeze cooked pancakes. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.
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Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, feel free to use any cheese that melts well. Cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses work well for this recipe.
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Can I make these pancakes without cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version. However, the cheese adds a deliciously creamy texture that enhances the flavor.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet to get them crispy again.
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Can I make these pancakes gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make these pancakes gluten-free.
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Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best to make the batter fresh, as the potatoes tend to release moisture over time, which can affect the texture of the pancakes.
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How can I make these pancakes spicier? Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
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Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, you can use any variety of potatoes that mash well, such as russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes.
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Can I bake these pancakes instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the pancakes. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake them for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.