Mouthwatering Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe

The Best Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe for Hungry Hearts

Crispy golden potato cakes stuffed with savory fillings promise a delightful culinary adventure.

These irresistible mouthwatering stuffed potato cakes blend comfort and flavor in every delectable bite.

Potatoes become a canvas for creativity, turning simple ingredients into extraordinary appetizers.

Soft, creamy interiors contrast beautifully with their perfectly crisped exterior.

Each cake bursts with rich, hearty ingredients that dance on your palate.

You and food enthusiasts will adore this versatile recipe that transforms humble potatoes into a crowd-pleasing sensation.

Prepare to fall in love with these irresistible potato cakes that elevate weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike.

What Makes Stuffed Potato Cakes So Satisfying

  • Quick Family Feast: Packed with crowd-pleasing ingredients like cheese, bacon, and herbs, these potato cakes instantly win over both kids and adults.
  • Masterful Meal Prep: Transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, delicious dish that feels like a completely new meal with minimal additional effort.
  • Versatile Comfort Food: Perfect for casual dinners, game nights, or as a hearty side dish that elevates any meal with its golden, crunchy exterior and creamy interior.
  • Easy Cooking Adventure: Simple step-by-step process makes this recipe approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, guaranteeing delicious results without complicated techniques.

What You Need for Stuffed Potato Cakes

Main Ingredients:

Potato Base:
  • Potatoes: Creamy and starchy base for our delicious cakes.
  • Milk: Smooth and rich addition to mashed potatoes.
  • Butter: Adds rich flavor and creamy texture.
Stuffing:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty flavor enhancer.
  • Bacon: Crispy and savory meat option.
  • Chives: Fresh and mild onion-like herb.
  • Parsley: Bright and fresh green herb.
  • Garlic: Aromatic and zesty flavor booster.
Coating and Cooking:
  • Flour: Light and fine binding ingredient.
  • Eggs: Helps create golden crispy exterior.
  • Breadcrumbs: Crunchy and crisp coating.
  • Vegetable Oil: Neutral cooking oil for frying.
Seasoning:
  • Salt: Classic flavor enhancer.
  • Black Pepper: Subtle and warming spice.

How to Make Stuffed Potato Cakes from Scratch

Step 1: Boil Potatoes to Perfection

Drop potatoes into a large pot of salted water.

Cook until they’re super tender and easily pierced with a fork, which takes about 15-20 minutes.

Once done, drain completely and return them to the pot.

Step 2: Create Creamy Potato Base

Transform your boiled potatoes into a luxurious mash by adding:
  • Milk
  • Butter
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Mash everything until the mixture becomes silky smooth and ultra-creamy.

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool down to room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare Delicious Stuffing

In a bowl, combine your flavor-packed mix:
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Crispy bacon (optional)
  • Fresh chives
  • Chopped parsley
  • Minced garlic

Blend these ingredients thoroughly to create an exciting filling.

Step 4: Shape Potato Cakes

Take a portion of cooled mashed potatoes and flatten it into a circular shape on your palm.

Place a spoonful of stuffing right in the center.

Carefully fold the potato over the filling, sculpting it into a beautiful cake shape.

Step 5: Create Crispy Coating

Prepare three separate stations for coating:
  • Flour
  • Beaten eggs
  • Breadcrumbs

Dip each potato cake first into flour, then eggs, and finally roll in breadcrumbs for a crunchy exterior.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place potato cakes into the hot oil.

Fry until they transform into a gorgeous golden brown color, approximately 3-4 minutes on each side.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove potato cakes from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve these delectable treats warm and watch everyone dive in with excitement.

Top Tips for Cooking Potato Cakes

  • Use a potato masher or ricer for ultra-smooth, lump-free mashed potatoes that create a silky texture.
  • Refrigerate mashed potatoes for 30 minutes to make handling and forming potato cakes easier and prevent them from falling apart.
  • Swap bacon for diced ham, add jalapeños for heat, or use different cheeses like gruyère or blue cheese to personalize the stuffing.
  • Maintain oil at 350°F to ensure crispy exterior without burning, using a thermometer for consistent golden-brown results.
  • Prepare potato cakes in advance and freeze uncooked, then fry directly from frozen for a convenient meal prep option.

Save & Warm Up Stuffed Potato Cakes Right

  • Store leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual potato cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to preserve their crispy texture and flavor.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Place potato cakes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy, restoring their original crunch.
  • Warm potato cakes in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they're heated evenly and maintain their golden exterior.

What to Pair with Stuffed Potato Cakes

  • Flavor-Boosting Wine Pairing: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy potato cakes. These white wines cut through the heaviness and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the cheesy, bacon-filled interior.
  • Complementary Sauce Companion: Whip up a zesty homemade ranch or garlic aioli dipping sauce. The creamy, tangy condiment enhances the potato cakes' savory profile and adds an extra layer of deliciousness that makes each bite more exciting.
  • Balanced Side Dish Match: Serve alongside a bright, fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and citrusy dressing create a perfect contrast to the rich, golden-brown potato cakes, balancing the meal's overall flavor profile.
  • Texture-Enhancing Garnish: Sprinkle additional fresh chives or chopped parsley on top just before serving. These herbs add a pop of color, fresh flavor, and a light, crisp texture that elevates the potato cakes from good to absolutely incredible.

Stuffed Potato Cake Variations

  • Gluten-Free Potato Cakes: Replace regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free panko crumbs for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Version: Swap bacon with sautéed mushrooms or crispy vegetable bacon bits to create a meat-free option that's packed with flavor.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or mashed turnips, using a low-carb breading like crushed pork rinds or almond meal for a keto-friendly approach.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese substitutes, coconut milk instead of dairy milk, and plant-based butter to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals while maintaining a creamy texture.

FAQs

  • Can I make these potato cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato cakes and refrigerate them before frying. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover with plastic wrap, and keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

  • What if I want to make these potato cakes vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and replace it with finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture in the stuffing.

  • How do I prevent the potato cakes from falling apart while frying?

Ensure the mashed potatoes are cool and firm, and seal the edges of the potato cake tightly when forming them. Use a gentle touch when turning them in the pan.

  • Are there alternative coatings for the potato cakes?

Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even ground nuts for a different crispy exterior.

Print
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Mouthwatering Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe

Mouthwatering Stuffed Potato Cakes Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Polish potato pancakes cradle a delightful secret inside their crispy golden exterior. Hearty comfort from Eastern European kitchens promises warmth and satisfaction when you bite into these irresistible potato cakes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

Binding and Coating Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, for coating
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs

Seasoning and Herb Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking, ensuring consistent texture throughout the dish.
  2. Submerge potato cubes in generously salted water, bringing to a rolling boil until fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
  3. Thoroughly drain potatoes, returning them to the warm pot to allow residual moisture to evaporate.
  4. Incorporate softened butter and milk into the potatoes, vigorously mashing until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
  5. Season mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper, blending thoroughly, then allow to cool completely.
  6. Prepare a flavor-packed filling by combining sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon pieces, finely chopped chives, minced parsley, and garlic.
  7. Using clean hands, gently flatten a portion of cooled mashed potatoes into a circular shape on your palm.
  8. Nestle a generous spoonful of cheese-bacon mixture into the potato’s center, carefully folding and sealing edges to create a compact cake.
  9. Create a breading station with separate bowls of all-purpose flour, whisked eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
  10. Carefully coat each potato cake first in flour, then egg wash, and finally roll in breadcrumbs for a crisp exterior.
  11. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet until shimmering, maintaining a medium-high temperature.
  12. Gently place breaded potato cakes into hot oil, frying until achieving a rich golden-brown color, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
  13. Transfer fried potato cakes onto paper towels to absorb excess oil, ensuring a crisp and non-greasy finish.
  14. Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Potato Temperature Matters: Cool mashed potatoes help create firmer, easier-to-handle potato cakes that hold their shape better during frying.
  • Customize Filling Options: Replace bacon with diced ham, crispy mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for vegetarian-friendly variations that suit different dietary preferences.
  • Breadcrumb Coating Trick: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness, or mix regular breadcrumbs with grated parmesan for additional flavor depth.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare potato cakes in advance and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before frying to help them maintain structural integrity during cooking.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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