Potato pancakes are a beloved comfort food, offering a perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender interior. This recipe for the Best Potato Pancakes Ever is truly a keeper, combining the rich flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and seasoned mashed potatoes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory side dish, these potato pancakes are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these mouthwatering pancakes.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 5 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, well beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet and cook over medium-high heat. Turn occasionally, until evenly browned and crisp, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon slices, crumble them, and set aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet for frying the pancakes.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a bowl, mix the cold mashed potatoes, well-beaten eggs, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. This mixture will form the base of your delicious potato pancakes.
3. Form the Patties:
Shape the potato mixture into 8 equal-sized patties. Ensure they are compact to prevent them from falling apart during frying.
4. Fry the Pancakes:
Heat the bacon drippings over medium heat. Pan-fry the potato patties in the skillet until they are crisp and golden brown on each side, about 4 minutes per side. The bacon drippings add an extra layer of flavor and help achieve a perfect crispy texture.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
1. Serve with Toppings:
Potato pancakes are delicious with a variety of toppings. Try them with a dollop of sour cream, applesauce, or even a sprinkle of fresh chives. These toppings add extra flavor and complement the savory taste of the pancakes.
2. Pair with a Protein:
For a complete meal, serve these potato pancakes with eggs, sausage, or ham. They make a hearty breakfast or brunch that will keep you satisfied.
3. Add a Side Salad:
For a lighter option, pair the potato pancakes with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pancakes.
4. Serve Warm:
For the best texture and flavor, serve the potato pancakes warm. If you need to keep them warm before serving, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F) until ready to eat.
Storage Tips:
1. Refrigeration:
Allow the potato pancakes to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to retain their crispness.
2. Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze the potato pancakes. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheating:
Reheat the potato pancakes in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pancakes soggy.
4. Avoid Stacking:
When storing, try to avoid stacking the potato pancakes directly on top of each other. If you need to stack them, place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent them from sticking together.
These serving and storage tips will help you enjoy your potato pancakes at their best, whether you’re eating them fresh or reheating leftovers.
Variations :
1. Cheesy Garlic Potato Pancakes:
Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the potato mixture along with 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. The garlic adds a savory depth, and the mozzarella makes the pancakes extra gooey and cheesy.
2. Loaded Potato Pancakes:
Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped green onions and 1/4 cup of sour cream into the potato mixture. Top the finished pancakes with more sour cream and additional green onions for a fully loaded potato experience.
3. Sweet Potato Pancakes:
Replace half of the mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes. Add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet and savory twist. These are perfect for a unique breakfast option.
4. Herb and Parmesan Potato Pancakes:
Mix in 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives. These herbs add a fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy pancakes.
5. Spicy Jalapeño Potato Pancakes:
Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy kick. You can also add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the flavor. Serve with a cooling dip like sour cream or ranch.
6. Vegan Potato Pancakes:
Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar. These changes make the pancakes suitable for a vegan diet without compromising on taste.
7. Gluten-Free Potato Pancakes:
Ensure the mashed potatoes and other ingredients are gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs if you need to adjust the consistency of the potato mixture. These pancakes can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.
8. Breakfast Potato Pancakes:
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped cooked ham or sausage to the potato mixture along with 1/4 cup of finely chopped bell peppers. These ingredients turn the pancakes into a hearty breakfast option.
9. Mediterranean Potato Pancakes:
Incorporate 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese and 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the potato mixture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a Mediterranean flair.
10. Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Potato Pancakes:
Sauté 1/2 cup of finely chopped onions and 1/2 cup of chopped mushrooms until caramelized, then mix them into the potato mixture. This variation adds a rich, umami flavor that elevates the pancakes.
These variations allow you to customize the Best Potato Pancakes Ever to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas to create your perfect potato pancake!
FAQs :
1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they are cold, as this helps the pancakes hold their shape better during frying.
2. Can I bake these potato pancakes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the potato pancakes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
3. Can I make the potato mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, form the patties and fry them as directed.
4. What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?
You can omit the bacon and use vegetarian bacon bits or add extra cheese and herbs for flavor. Smoked paprika can also add a nice smoky flavor without the meat.
5. Can I freeze the potato pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze the potato pancakes. Place the cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.
6. How can I make the potato pancakes extra crispy?
To make the pancakes extra crispy, ensure the skillet and bacon drippings are hot before adding the patties. You can also add a bit of flour or breadcrumbs to the potato mixture to help achieve a crispier texture.
7. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh mashed potatoes yield the best texture and flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure they are thick and well-seasoned.
8. How do I keep the potato pancakes from falling apart?
Make sure the mashed potatoes are cold and well-mixed with the other ingredients. If the mixture seems too loose, you can add a bit of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
9. What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?
You can use any meltable cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack. Each type of cheese will add its unique flavor to the pancakes.
10. Can I add vegetables to the potato mixture?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, green onions, or even grated zucchini can be added to the potato mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the vegetables to keep the pancakes from becoming too soggy.
These Best Potato Pancakes Ever are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. The combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and seasoned mashed potatoes creates a savory treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you serve them with a dollop of sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite condiment, these potato pancakes are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and experience why it’s a keeper!