What is the difference between potato pancakes and latkes?

Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese share roots with traditional latkes, but the two have some distinct differences. Latkes often contain matzo meal or breadcrumbs and are tied closely to Jewish holidays like Hanukkah. Potato pancakes, especially in recipes like these, use fewer ingredients just grated potatoes, onion, flour, and egg and tend to fry up thinner and crispier. Both are delicious, but Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese take it a step further with their rich topping.

How do you keep potato patties from falling apart?

For firm, crispy Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese, it’s essential to squeeze out all the excess moisture from the grated potatoes. This helps the pancakes hold their shape. Also, a good ratio of egg and flour gives the structure needed. Letting the mixture rest a few minutes can also improve how well it binds.

What do Germans eat with potato pancakes?

While this dish adds beef and cheese for a filling meal, Germans traditionally serve their potato pancakes called Kartoffelpuffer with applesauce, sour cream, or herb quark. Some enjoy them as a side to roasted meats or sausages. It’s a dish with both sweet and savory traditions, much like how Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese bring modern flair to an old classic.

What is the Irish version of a potato pancake?

Ireland’s version is boxty , made from grated and mashed potatoes, cooked on a griddle or pan-fried. While boxty is often served with eggs or sausage, Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese transform this base into a full, satisfying meal with bold flavors that blend beautifully with global inspirations.

Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese – 7 Must-Try Crispy, Delicious Steps

Description

These Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese are crispy, hearty, and filled with bold flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, they’re easy to make and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 egg

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 lb ground beef

1/2 cup diced bell pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

Fresh herbs, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Grate the potatoes and squeeze out moisture using a clean towel.

2. In a bowl, mix potatoes, onion, egg, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat oil in a skillet, form the mixture into patties, and fry until golden on both sides.

4. In another skillet, cook the beef until browned, then add bell pepper and garlic.

5. Season beef with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 more minutes.

6. Top each pancake with the beef mixture and sprinkle with cheese.

7. Heat until cheese melts, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.

Notes

Make ahead: Freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer, then reheat in the oven or skillet.

Customize: Add grated carrots or zucchini to the potato mix.

Try with different cheese or meat substitutions for variety.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 pancakes with beef topping
Calories: 500
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 80mg