If you have a soft spot for comfort food that feels like a warm hug, you’re going to absolutely adore this Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe. Imagine golden, crispy potato pancakes with a savory, juicy ground beef center bursting with flavor in every bite. This dish combines the beloved texture of fluffy mashed potatoes with a satisfying, well-seasoned filling that makes each pancake a little masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to meal that’s both fun to make and irresistible to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity fool you; each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the rich taste and perfect texture of these loaded pancakes. From the creamy mashed potatoes that keep things tender to the perfectly spiced ground beef filling, you’ll find everything works together beautifully.
- Mashed potatoes (2 cups): Using cold or room temperature potatoes helps the dough hold better for frying.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): This binds everything together, giving the pancakes structure without heaviness.
- Egg (1): Acts as a natural glue to keep the dough cohesive and moist.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- Chopped green onions (1 tablespoon, optional): Bring a mild fresh crunch and a pop of color.
- Oil or butter (1 tablespoon for frying): Needed for that perfect golden crust on the pancakes.
- Ground beef (1/2 lb for filling): The hearty, flavorful star of the filling that makes this pancake extraordinary.
- Finely chopped onion (1/2 small): Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- Minced garlic (1 clove): Punches up the filling with savory aroma and taste.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the beef filling a smoky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Critical for seasoning the beef perfectly.
- Oil for cooking beef (1 tablespoon): Ensures the meat browns nicely while staying juicy.
How to Make Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef Filling
Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic, cooking everything until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are tender. Season the mixture with paprika, salt, and pepper, then set it aside to cool slightly. This flavorful filling is what makes these pancakes truly special, so don’t rush this step—the slow cooking lets the flavors meld wonderfully.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Dough
Grab a bowl and combine your cold mashed potatoes with flour, egg, salt, pepper, and chopped green onions if you’re using them. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. If it feels too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, or the pancakes will get dense. This dough is the perfect balance of soft and sturdy, ready to envelope the tasty filling.
Step 3: Shape the Potato Patties
Divide the dough into eight equal pieces. Flatten each portion into a 3-inch round patty using your hands. These will act as the pancake “shells” that hold the beef filling, so try to keep them even in size for uniform cooking.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pancakes
Place about a tablespoon of the cooled ground beef mixture in the center of one potato patty. Top it with another patty and press the edges together firmly to seal the filling inside. Gently flatten each stuffed pancake just a bit, making sure the filling won’t escape during frying. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 5: Fry the Pancakes
Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully cook the stuffed pancakes for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they reach a gorgeous golden brown and feel crispy to the touch. This frying step creates a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful interiors.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the pancakes hot for the best taste and texture, optionally paired with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. These are perfect for sharing and enjoying warm!
How to Serve Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or dill can elevate these pancakes to a whole new level. The cool creaminess cuts through the crispy, savory flavors in a beautifully balanced way. For a little zing, a touch of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice works wonderfully, too.
Side Dishes
If you want to turn this recipe into a full meal, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies brings a fresh contrast to the rich pancakes. Pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut add an exciting tanginess that complements the beef filling brilliantly. A simple bowl of tomato soup is also a cozy accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these stuffed pancakes with layers of cheese melted on top for a decadent twist, or slice them into bite-sized pieces to serve as appetizers at your next gathering. You can even create a brunch platter, adding eggs and avocado slices to make it more substantial and colorful. These pancakes are versatile and look gorgeous on any plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover stuffed pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the pancakes soggy.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months. This is a perfect make-ahead option if you want to enjoy this recipe another day without the fuss.
Reheating
Reheat the pancakes in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil to restore their crispiness, or pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the pancakes soft rather than crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work wonderfully here and often make the dough even easier to handle once chilled.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can try ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute to switch things up while keeping that great savory filling.
Is it necessary to add green onions to the potato dough?
Not at all. Green onions are optional but highly recommended for a subtle fresh bite and color contrast.
How do I prevent the pancakes from falling apart during frying?
Make sure to seal the edges of the filled patties very well by pressing firmly and flattening slightly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain even cooking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or potato starch to keep the dough binding and still achieve a tasty golden crust.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing this Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe. From the first crispy bite to the flavorful juicy filling, it never fails to bring smiles around the table. I can’t recommend enough giving this unique, hearty dish a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food to enjoy again and again!
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Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (makes 4 stuffed pancakes)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are a deliciously crispy and savory dish perfect for a comforting meal. Soft mashed potatoes are combined with flour and egg to form a tender dough, then stuffed with a flavorful ground beef, onion, and garlic filling seasoned with paprika. Pan-fried to a golden brown, these stuffed pancakes are satisfying and great served hot with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pancake Dough
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temperature)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter for frying
For the Ground Beef Filling
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil for cooking beef
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil and cook the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned and cooked through. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the potato dough: In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and green onions if using. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Shape the dough portions: Divide the potato dough into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a 3-inch round patty in your hand.
- Assemble the stuffed pancakes: Place 1 tablespoon of the ground beef mixture in the center of one patty. Take another patty and place it over the top, sealing the edges. Flatten slightly. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
- Fry the pancakes: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the stuffed pancakes for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the pancakes from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot, optionally with sour cream or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Notes
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are cold or at room temperature for easier dough handling.
- If the dough feels too sticky, add flour a little at a time until manageable.
- Be careful to seal the edges of the stuffed pancakes well to prevent filling from leaking during frying.
- Use medium heat while frying to ensure the pancakes cook through without burning.
- Leftover pancakes can be reheated in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.
