If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and a satisfying texture, this Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine golden, crispy potato cakes embracing a juicy, spiced ground beef filling melted with sharp cheddar cheese—each bite warms your soul and hits all the right savory notes. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether a casual weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, and it’s surprisingly simple to whip up with just a handful of kitchen essentials.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each plays a vital role in creating the magic of this dish. From fluffy mashed potatoes to the blend of spices that bring the filling to life, every component adds taste, texture, or color that makes these potato cakes unforgettable.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled): The soft base that shapes the cakes and keeps them tender inside.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the potatoes into a dough that holds together perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and acts as a natural glue for the dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick that balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef mixture, adding a beautiful depth to the filling.
- 1/2 pound ground beef: The hearty, flavorful centerpiece that makes these cakes satisfying.
- 1/2 small onion (finely diced): Brings sweetness and texture when caramelized into the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm, savory undertone without overpowering the other spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet note that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of gooey goodness inside each cake.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A pop of fresh color and flavor that brightens the savory filling.
- Oil for frying: Ensures a crisp, golden crust that’s irresistible.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and gently sauté the finely diced onion until it’s soft and slightly caramelized, about 3 minutes. This step unlocks the onion’s natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the savory beef. Next, add the ground beef along with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring as the meat browns and cooks through—this should take around 6 to 8 minutes. Finally, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, allowing the cheese to melt into the meat and create a comforting, cheesy filling. Set it aside to cool slightly before assembling.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Dough
While the filling cools, take a mixing bowl and combine the cooled mashed potatoes with the flour, egg, salt, and black pepper. This mixture forms a soft but workable dough—if your mashed potatoes are on the moister side, flour helps keep everything together. Gently mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated, making sure not to overwork the dough so it stays light and tender.
Step 3: Shape the Stuffed Potato Cakes
Divide the potato dough into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and flatten it into a disc shape on a clean surface. Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheesy beef filling into the center of each. Carefully fold the edges over the filling and seal to create a closed patty. Gently flatten each stuffed cake slightly to ensure even cooking and a perfect golden crust later.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the cakes in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, aiming for a beautiful golden-brown crust. The oil helps create a crisp exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the soft potato interior and melty beef filling. Once cooked through and crisp on both sides, remove the cakes and drain briefly on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe
Garnishes
Top your potato cakes with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt also pairs beautifully and adds a creamy contrast to the savory filling.
Side Dishes
These cakes are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A simple coleslaw or steamed broccoli also makes great companions without overpowering the flavors of the stuffed cakes.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Try stacking two potato cakes with a layer of melted cheese in between for a towering delight. Or wrap them with bacon before frying for an extra savory twist. You can also turn them into sliders using soft buns and your favorite condiments for a fun party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them an excellent option for a quick lunch or snack later in the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze these potato cakes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and keep for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy ready-to-cook savory treats anytime you want.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cakes in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until heated through and their crispy crust revives. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the exterior crisp and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes bring a lovely natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory beef and cheese. Just make sure the mashed sweet potatoes aren’t too runny to maintain the dough consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative, and use your favorite vegetarian cheese to keep the delicious flavors intact.
How do I prevent the potato cakes from falling apart?
Ensuring the mashed potatoes are firm and not too watery is key. Also, using enough flour and egg to bind the dough helps a lot. Handle the cakes gently when adding filling and frying.
Can I bake the potato cakes instead of frying?
You can! Place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is the classic choice for its good melt and sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella for a milder, creamier melt.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe is truly a comforting, flavorful dish that’s worth every minute spent making it. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these potato cakes bring warmth and satisfaction to the table like few other meals can. Give it a try—you’re going to love how easy and delicious it is to bring this savory treat into your home kitchen.
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Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 potato cakes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and hearty Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes, combining creamy mashed potatoes with savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley. Perfectly pan-fried to a golden crisp on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful inside, these potato cakes make a satisfying main course or a comforting snack.
Ingredients
Potato Cake Dough
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Beef Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 small onion (finely diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef along with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook while breaking up the meat until browned and fully cooked, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Potato Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to form a soft, pliable dough that holds together but is not too sticky.
- Assemble Potato Cakes: Divide the potato dough into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a round disc shape using your hands. Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each disc. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it completely and shape into a patty. Gently flatten each stuffed cake to an even thickness.
- Cook the Potato Cakes: Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, enough to coat the bottom for shallow frying. Once hot, add the stuffed potato cakes to the skillet. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the cakes.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked potato cakes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy as a main course or hearty snack.
Notes
- These potato cakes can be made ahead of time and reheated in a skillet or oven for convenience.
- For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the beef filling while cooking.
- Use firm mashed potatoes rather than runny to ensure the dough holds together well.
- Oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil works best for frying.
- Handle the stuffed cakes gently when flipping to maintain their shape and seal.
