Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese. These stuffed potato cakes are perfect for a hearty dinner or a special treat. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for frying
- Additional cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, add the peeled and chopped potatoes. Cover with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes until smooth. Add a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef:
- Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are well combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Add the Cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Potato Cakes
- Form the Potato Cakes:
- Take a scoop of mashed potatoes and flatten it into a patty in your hand. Place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center, then fold the potatoes around the filling to encase it, forming a ball. Flatten slightly into a cake shape. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Potato Cakes
- Fry the Potato Cakes:
- In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of olive oil over medium heat. Add the potato cakes in batches, cooking until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Add more oil as needed for frying.
- Drain:
- Remove the potato cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Top with Cheese (Optional):
- If desired, sprinkle additional grated cheddar cheese on top of the hot potato cakes and let it melt.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are well-mashed and smooth to create a cohesive dough that holds the filling well.
- Frying: Fry the potato cakes in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause them to steam instead of crisp.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version:
- Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Potato Cakes:
- Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Potato Cakes:
- Mix chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill into the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these potato cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the potato cakes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze these potato cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato cakes. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What can I serve with Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes?
These potato cakes are delicious on their own but also pair well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a dipping sauce such as ranch or ketchup.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda.
Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes are a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy mashed potato exterior and savory beef and cheese filling, these potato cakes are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner or a special treat, this recipe is easy to follow and full of satisfying flavors. Give these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes a try and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. Happy cooking!
