If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further—Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling bring together creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, and crispy golden edges in every bite. This recipe is one of those homey creations that disappears from the table in minutes, whether you make it as a hearty main or a unique snack. These filled potato pancakes are just the thing to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something truly special and satisfyingly savory. Let’s dive in and make your new favorite family dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised by how this recipe comes together from humble pantry basics. Each ingredient adds something unique—whether it’s creaminess, a bit of crunch, or layers of flavor—so don’t skip a thing!

Mashed potatoes (2 cups, chilled): Cold mashed potatoes are easier to handle and help your pancakes hold together.
Large egg (1): Acts as the binding hero, ensuring your pancakes stay intact while frying.
All-purpose flour (1/4 cup, plus more if needed): Gives body to the potato dough and helps it crisp up beautifully.
Shredded cheese (1/2 cup, optional): If you love cheesy pockets, don’t skip this upgrade—it melts into a gooey surprise.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing the potato mixture and making all the flavors pop.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon for frying): Get those gorgeous, golden brown edges with a bit of oil in the skillet.
Ground beef (1/2 pound): The savory star of the filling, adding richness and protein.
Small onion (1, finely chopped): Brings a gentle sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
Garlic clove (1, minced): Just a little goes a long way in layering flavors.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds color and a subtle smoky note.
Cumin (1/4 teaspoon): Lends warmth and a mildly earthy flavor to the filling.
Salt and pepper (to taste, for filling): Build up that beefy, savory punch.
Oil for sautéing (1 tablespoon): Makes the beef mixture juicy, not dry.
Chopped parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness in the beef filling if you’d like.

How to Make Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Savory Beef Filling

Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté for two to three minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. Add the minced garlic, followed by the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Keep an eye on things, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through—this should take about six to eight minutes. Now, sprinkle in paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Transfer the mixture to a plate and let it cool while you work on the potatoes.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potato Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes with the egg, flour, cheese (if you choose to indulge), salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything gently until you have a soft, pliable dough. If the dough feels extra sticky, add a little more flour a tablespoon at a time just until you can shape it.

Step 3: Shape and Assemble the Pancakes

Scoop about two tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten it into a patty right in your hand. Place a generous spoonful of your beef filling in the center, then top with another thin layer of potato. Seal the edges with your fingers, gently pressing down to flatten and enclose the filling. Each pancake should look like a thick, savory envelope ready for crisping up!

Step 4: Crisp and Fry to Golden Perfection

Set a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of vegetable oil. Once the oil shimmers, place your pancakes in, working in batches so you don’t crowd the pan. Fry each for three to four minutes per side until gloriously golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels before serving hot—the sizzle and aroma are irresistible!

How to Serve Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling

Garnishes

Give your Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling a final touch of flair with a generous dollop of sour cream, a shower of chopped fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of tangy grated cheese. These extras elevate every bite, adding freshness and a little burst of color to the plate.

Side Dishes

Pair these pancakes with a crisp, simple green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition. Pickled veggies make a tangy companion, and if you really want to treat yourself, add a bowl of homemade soup or borscht on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them high on a platter for a dramatic centerpiece, or make mini pancakes for party appetizers. You could even serve Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling “family style” with a variety of dipping sauces—like garlicky yogurt or herby mayo—for everyone to choose their favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the pancakes cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days—they’ll still crisp up beautifully when reheated.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two months. Just be sure to label with the date so you don’t forget about these hidden treasures!

Reheating

For best results, reheat Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling in a skillet over medium heat until the outside is crisp and the inside is hot. You can also bake them at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes if you’re reheating a larger batch. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll sacrifice that irresistible crispness.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade mashed potatoes deliver the richest flavor and texture, instant works perfectly in a pinch. Just make sure they’re nice and firm once chilled, as this helps the pancakes hold their shape.

What’s the best way to prevent the pancakes from falling apart?

Chilled potatoes, just the right amount of flour, and a large egg provide the structure you need. If the mixture ever feels too loose to handle, a dusting of extra flour or a short chill in the fridge will firm it right up.

Can I swap out the ground beef for something else?

Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even sautéed mushrooms work well if you’re looking for a twist. Just be sure your filling isn’t too wet so your pancakes stay crisp and together.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend, and double-check that any other ingredients (like cheese or seasonings) are also gluten-free for your needs.

Are Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling kid-friendly?

They’re usually a huge hit! Kids love the creamy potato shell and fun surprise inside. If your family has milder palates, feel free to skip the cumin and paprika or add extra cheese to the filling for gooey appeal.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling yet, trust me—you’re in for something truly special. Warm, hearty, and packed with that golden crunch and savory center, this is comfort food at its finest. I can’t wait for you to make a batch and see just how quickly every last one disappears!

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 pancakes 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, they make a satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Pancakes:

2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled)
1 large egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Filling:

1/2 pound ground beef
1 small onion (finely chopped)
1 garlic clove (minced)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)
Chopped parsley (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add garlic and ground beef, cook until browned. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and parsley. Set aside.
Make the Pancake Dough: Mix mashed potatoes with egg, flour, cheese, salt, and pepper. Adjust consistency with flour if needed.
Assemble the Pancakes: Flatten potato mixture, add beef filling, cover with more potato, and shape into pancakes.
Cook the Pancakes: Fry in oil until golden brown and crispy on both sides.