These Potato Cheese Pancakes are an irresistible savory treat made with creamy mashed potatoes and filled with gooey mozzarella cheese. Inspired by both Italian and Korean flavors, they’re pan-fried until golden and crisp on the outside, with a soft, cheesy interior. Perfect as a brunch dish, appetizer, or side, these pancakes are simple to make using pantry staples—and absolutely addictive when served hot.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks

• Salt (for boiling)

• 2–3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus extra for coating)

• 1–2 teaspoons sugar

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Chopped mozzarella cheese (about 1 tsp per pancake)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (e.g., peanut oil) for frying

Directions

1. Cook the Potatoes: Boil potato chunks in salted water until fork-tender. Alternatively, steam them.

2. Mash: Mash hot potatoes until smooth and creamy using a fork, ricer, or potato masher.

3. Mix Dough: Add flour, sugar, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. If it’s too wet, add more flour.

4. Form the Pancakes:

   • Scoop two spoonfuls (approx. 4 cm/1.5 inches each) of the potato mixture.

   • Flour your hands and form a disc.

   • Place 1 tsp of chopped mozzarella in the center, fold over, and roll into a ball.

   • Slightly flatten each ball, then lightly coat with flour.

5. Cook: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.

   • Cook pancakes on both sides for about 5 minutes each until golden brown.

6. Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Yield: Makes approx. 9 pancakes

Nutrients (Estimated Per Pancake)

• Calories: ~130 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~15g

• Protein: ~4g

• Fat: ~6g

  • Saturated Fat: ~2.5g

• Sodium: ~180mg

• Fiber: ~1g

• Calcium: ~50mg

The Allure of Potato and Cheese

Few combinations are as universally adored as potatoes and cheese. In this recipe, the starchiness of the potatoes meets the rich melt of mozzarella to create a texture that’s both crispy and tender. As the pancakes sizzle on the skillet, the outer layer crisps up beautifully, while the inside becomes a molten pocket of cheesy delight. It’s an irresistible fusion of textures that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

This dish pulls inspiration from multiple culinary traditions. It’s reminiscent of Italian potato gnocchi or croquettes, while also nodding to Korean gamja jeon—a type of potato pancake that’s loved for its crispy exterior and simple ingredients. The fusion creates something both familiar and exciting.

A Comforting and Flexible Recipe

One of the best aspects of this dish is its flexibility. These pancakes work wonderfully as:

• A brunch centerpiece, served with a fried egg or a dollop of sour cream

• A satisfying appetizer or party snack, especially when cut into wedges and served with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or sriracha mayo

• A side dish to heartier mains like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or soup

The beauty lies in how you can serve them. Their simplicity means they pair well with almost anything savory, but they’re also flavorful enough to stand alone.

Ingredients You Likely Already Have

This recipe is ideal when you want to whip something up without an extra grocery trip. The ingredients are staples in most kitchens:

• Potatoes form the hearty base

• Flour binds the mashed potatoes into a workable dough

• Mozzarella cheese brings the melt and stretch that takes these pancakes to the next level

• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar balance the flavors

• Vegetable oil ensures a crisp golden crust

With ingredients so straightforward, you might find yourself making these pancakes on repeat.

A Budget-Friendly and No-Waste Option

Potato cheese pancakes are a clever way to use leftover mashed potatoes. Instead of letting yesterday’s side dish go to waste, this recipe transforms it into something brand new and crave-worthy. If you’re not working with leftovers, freshly mashed potatoes work just as well.

For those watching their grocery bills, this recipe is both economical and filling. A few potatoes and a small block of mozzarella can yield a generous batch of pancakes, making it great for feeding a family or prepping snacks ahead of time.

Tips for Perfect Pancakes Every Time

Getting these pancakes just right is easy with a few simple tips:

• Use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds. They mash easily and create a fluffy, pliable dough.

• Mash while hot to ensure smoothness and better absorption of flour.

• Don’t overdo the flour—you want the dough to be just firm enough to hold its shape without becoming tough.

• Use chopped mozzarella instead of pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.

• Fry in a non-stick skillet with enough oil to coat the bottom, ensuring an even, golden crust.

Each pancake takes about five minutes per side, so patience pays off. You’ll be rewarded with a crispy exterior that encases that gooey, cheesy filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, but they also reheat well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispness, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze them after shaping (before frying) on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw slightly and pan-fry as directed.

Healthier Adjustments and Variations

Though undeniably indulgent, you can tweak the recipe for a lighter version:

• Use reduced-fat mozzarella or a plant-based cheese alternative

• Swap white potatoes for sweet potatoes for added fiber and a subtle sweetness

• Bake instead of pan-frying for a lower-fat version, brushing lightly with oil and baking at 400°F (200°C) until golden

You can also get creative with the fillings. Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives, or mix in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra kick.

Great for Entertaining

Potato cheese pancakes aren’t just tasty—they’re also visually appealing. The golden brown crust, paired with the satisfying cheese pull, makes them a fantastic option for guests. You can prepare them in advance and reheat when needed, saving time while still delivering that “made-from-scratch” magic.

Serve them alongside dipping sauces and garnish with fresh herbs or a dusting of Parmesan for an elegant presentation. Whether it’s a brunch buffet, game day spread, or a casual family dinner, these pancakes always steal the spotlight.

Conclusion

Potato Cheese Pancakes are a perfect example of how a few humble ingredients can come together to create something deeply comforting, delicious, and surprisingly versatile. With their crispy golden exterior and soft, cheesy middle, they deliver everything you want from a savory snack or side dish. Rooted in global inspiration but adaptable to your own kitchen’s needs, these pancakes are guaranteed to win over anyone lucky enough to try them.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned foodie, this recipe is a satisfying way to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Make a batch, share them with loved ones, and enjoy the universal comfort of potatoes and cheese—crispy, melty, and endlessly craveable.