Stuffed Potato Cakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The seasoned ground beef and onions provide a rich, savory taste.
• Cheesy Goodness: Melted cheddar adds a gooey, satisfying element.
• Crispy Exterior: Grated potatoes form a golden, crunchy crust.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable as a main course, appetizer, or snack.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

   • In a bowl, mix the grated potatoes with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for a few minutes, then squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

2. Cook the Beef Filling:

   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
   • Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the onions are translucent and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Form the Potato Patties:

   • Take a handful of the grated potato mixture and flatten it into a small patty in your hand.
   • Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center, along with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
   • Cover with another small amount of grated potato, pressing gently to seal the edges and encase the filling. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

4. Fry the Stuffed Potato Cakes:

   • Heat additional olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
   • Carefully place the stuffed potato cakes into the hot oil, cooking until golden brown and crispy on one side, about 4-5 minutes.
   • Flip and cook the other side until equally golden and the cheese has melted inside.
   • Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the stuffed potato cakes hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. They pair well with a side salad or dipping sauce of your choice.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option:

   • Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mixture of other vegetables for a meatless version.

2. Different Cheeses:

   • Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack cheese for varying flavors.

3. Spicy Kick:

   • Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.

4. Herb Infusion:

   • Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives into the potato mixture for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage:

  • Place any leftover potato cakes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reheating:

  • Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Can I freeze stuffed potato cakes?

Yes, you can freeze them before frying. Place the assembled, uncooked potato cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with these potato cakes?

They pair well with sour cream, yogurt-based dips, or a simple green salad.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, for a healthier alternative, brush the potato cakes with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

How do I prevent them from falling apart?

Ensuring the potatoes are well-drained of moisture and pressing the edges firmly when forming the cakes will help them hold together during cooking.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used, but they have a higher moisture content. Make sure to drain them well after grating to prevent the cakes from becoming too soft.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Potato Cakes offer a delicious and versatile way to enjoy potatoes. With a crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served as a main course or a snack, they provide comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

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