Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling

Here’s a delicious recipe for Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling, a comfort food classic that’s crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and packed with savory meat in the center. Great for using leftover mashed potatoes!

🥔 Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling

🧾 Ingredients

For the mashed potato dough:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)

• 1 egg

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (more if needed)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: 1/4 tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor

For the meat filling:

• 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or ground turkey

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped parsley or dill for freshness

For frying:

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

• Optional: butter for added flavor

🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion in a little oil until soft (about 3–4 minutes).

   • Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

   • Add ground meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Let it cool slightly.

2. Make the Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, flour, and seasonings.

   • Mix until it forms a soft but manageable dough. Add a little more flour if it’s too sticky.

3. Form the Pancakes:

   • Divide the dough into equal portions (about the size of a golf ball).

   • Flatten each piece into a small patty.

   • Place about 1–2 teaspoons of the meat filling in the center.

   • Carefully fold the edges over the filling and shape into a flat pancake, sealing the meat inside.

4. Cook:

   • Heat oil (and optional butter) in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.

   • Fry the pancakes until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side).

   • Drain on paper towels.

🥄 Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with sour cream, yogurt sauce, or gravy.

• Pair with a simple salad or pickled vegetables.

🔁 Variations

• Add shredded cheese into the potato dough for more richness.

• Use seasoned shredded chicken or mushrooms instead of beef for different fillings.

• Make them bite-sized for appetizers or party snacks.