Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and oozing with melted cheese — these Cheesy Potato Pancakes are pure comfort in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a quick side dish, this golden treat transforms humble potatoes into something extraordinary.
Whether you call them cheesy latkes, potato fritters, or savory pancakes, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds: classic flavor and irresistible crunch.
🥔 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, cheesy perfection in every bite
- Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
- Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes
- Kid-approved and great for all occasions
- Versatile — serve for breakfast, dinner, or snacks
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes (starchy, like Russet or Yukon Gold) | 4 medium (about 1 lb) | Provides structure and crisp texture |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup | Adds flavor, richness, and meltiness |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binds the ingredients together |
| All-purpose flour or breadcrumbs | 3 tbsp | Absorbs moisture for better crisping |
| Green onions (chopped) | 2 tbsp | Adds freshness and mild sharpness |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove | Enhances savory depth |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Balances flavor |
| Oil (vegetable or canola) | For frying | Ensures golden crisp edges |
💡 Substitution Tips:
- Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese profile.
- For gluten-free pancakes, replace flour with rice flour or almond flour.
- Add chopped herbs (parsley, dill, or chives) for a flavor boost.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater.
- Place grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness — don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, flour, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until the ingredients are evenly combined and hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
- Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture for each pancake and flatten slightly with a spatula.
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a wire rack (not paper towels) to keep them crisp.
🔥 Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Potato Pancakes
- Drain well: Always squeeze out potato water before mixing.
- Chill before frying: Let the mixture rest 10 minutes to firm up.
- Right temperature: Medium heat gives crisp edges without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd: Fry in small batches for even cooking.
- Crisp trick: Keep finished pancakes warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven until serving.
🌍 Delicious Variations
1. Ukrainian-Style
Serve with sour cream and chopped dill — traditional and comforting.
2. German-Style (Kartoffelpuffer)
Skip the cheese and pair with applesauce or cranberry compote.
3. Korean-Inspired
Add finely chopped scallions, sesame oil, and a dash of gochujang for a spicy twist.
4. Vegan Version
Use a flaxseed “egg” (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and vegan cheese.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with sour cream, spicy mayo, or Greek yogurt dip.
- Pair with fried eggs, smoked salmon, or grilled chicken for a meal.
- Add as a side dish to soups or stews for added crunch.
🧊 Storage, Reheating & Freezing
To store:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
Place in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until crisp again.
To freeze:
Lay uncooked patties between parchment paper and freeze up to 2 months. Cook straight from frozen — no need to thaw.
🥣 Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
Values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Yes! Add a bit of flour to firm up the texture and follow the same frying steps.
Q: Why are my pancakes soggy?
A: Too much moisture in the potatoes — make sure to squeeze them well before mixing.
Q: Can I bake instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Sharp cheddar gives strong flavor, while mozzarella makes them gooey and stretchy.
⭐ Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Potato Pancakes are more than a recipe — they’re a comfort classic reimagined with modern flair. Crunchy, creamy, and full of flavor, they’re perfect for breakfast spreads, family dinners, or cozy weekends.
So grab those potatoes, heat the pan, and let your kitchen fill with that irresistible golden aroma — because crispy, cheesy happiness is just a few flips away.
