This savory, crispy, golden recipe is not just a clever way to repurpose leftovers—it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, hungry spouses, or just yourself (while watching your favorite guilty-pleasure show), these stuffed potato pancakes hit all the right notes: crunchy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Let’s turn those leftovers into magic, shall we?
Why You’ll Love These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling
If the idea of crispy mashed potato patties hugging a juicy meat center doesn’t already have you sold, here are a few more reasons to whip these up ASAP:
Perfect for leftovers – This is the leftover mashed potatoes recipe you’ll actually look forward to making.
Kid-approved – Something about meat-filled potato fritters makes even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds.
Totally customizable – Use ground beef, chicken, turkey—whatever you’ve got on hand.
Freezer-friendly – Make a batch, freeze half, and thank yourself later.
Plus, they’re pan-fried for a perfectly golden exterior (think: crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside), and they reheat like a dream.
Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potato Dough:
2 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 large egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meat Filling:
1 tablespoon oil
1/2 pound ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Cooking:
Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Directions:
1. Cook the Meat Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes). Toss in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds—your kitchen should already be smelling amazing. Add the ground meat, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Optional: Stir in some chopped parsley for extra flavor and freshness.
Let the filling cool slightly—you don’t want to burn your hands later!
2. Mix the Potato Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine your cold mashed potatoes with the egg and flour. Season with salt and pepper. You want a soft but workable dough—if it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
3. Shape the Pancakes
Dust your hands (and maybe your counter, too) with flour. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten into a small circle. Place a spoonful of your meat filling in the center, then gently fold the edges up and over. Flatten into a patty shape. It’s like making little edible pillows of joy.
Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
4. Pan-Fry Until Crispy
Heat some vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the pancakes in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, or until they’re gloriously golden and crispy. Let them drain on paper towels to avoid soggy bottoms (nobody wants that).
5. Serve and Savor
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce. Bonus points if you serve them alongside a crisp green salad or some quick-pickled veggies.
Tips for Crispy, Perfect Pancakes Every Time
Chill matters: Cold mashed potatoes make the dough easier to handle and help it hold its shape while frying.
Dust it up: Lightly flour your hands and the surface—this keeps the dough from sticking and your sanity intact.
Filling finesse: Don’t overstuff! A heaping teaspoon of filling is just right.
Batch it smart: Don’t crowd the pan—too many pancakes can drop the oil temp and lead to soggy cakes.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, as long as they’re thick and not runny. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before starting.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to bring back the crispiness.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen in a pan or oven.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
Sour cream, garlic aioli, or even ketchup if you’re feeding littles. Try my homemade herbed yogurt dip for something fresher!
What to Serve With These Potato Cakes
Want to make a whole meal out of it? Pair with:
A light cucumber salad
Roasted vegetables for balance
Or keep it cozy with a bowl of chicken soup on the side
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling are one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’re winning at life. You get to clean out your fridge and make something absolutely delicious. Whether you call them potato patties with ground beef, meat-filled potato fritters, or easy potato pancakes with filling—they’re all about transforming the humble spud into something crave-worthy.
Go ahead and bookmark this one. Your leftovers (and your family) will thank you.