Potato pancakes are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe takes mashed potatoes and transforms them into crispy, savory pancakes with the addition of bacon and cheese. They are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes and are sure to become a family favorite. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the best potato pancakes ever. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Best Potato Pancakes Ever:
- 4 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 5 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, well beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Potato Pancake Batter
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, crumbled bacon, onion powder, salt, black pepper, beaten eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Pancakes
- Shape Pancakes: Using your hands, form the potato mixture into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick. You should get around 8-10 pancakes, depending on the size.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat Skillet: In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil (about 1-2 tablespoons) over medium-high heat.
- Fry Pancakes: Add the potato pancakes to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the potato pancakes hot, garnished with sour cream, chives, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes work best for this recipe as they hold their shape better. You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make them fresh and allow them to cool.
- Bacon: Make sure the bacon is crispy before crumbling it into the potato mixture for the best texture.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add finely chopped green onions or chives for added flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- Spicy Pancakes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the potato pancake mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Shape and cook the pancakes just before serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness.
Q3: Can I freeze potato pancakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked potato pancakes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.
Q4: What can I serve with potato pancakes?
A: Potato pancakes pair well with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, applesauce, smoked salmon, or a poached egg. They also make a great side dish for meats such as sausage, ham, or chicken.
Q5: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you don’t have homemade mashed potatoes on hand. Prepare them according to the package instructions and allow them to cool before using in the recipe.
These potato pancakes are a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their crispy exterior and flavorful interior, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create the best potato pancakes ever. Serve them with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete and satisfying meal!
Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or just want to enjoy a delicious, savory treat, these potato pancakes are an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.