Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and stuffed with a savory meat filling — these pancakes are the perfect comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Soft – Golden-brown exterior with a tender, fluffy center.

• Savory Meat Filling – Juicy, flavorful beef enhances every bite.

• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an easy, budget-friendly dish.

• Versatile & Comforting – Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack.

Ingredients

For the Pancake Dough

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temp)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 egg

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)

• 1 tbsp oil or butter (for frying)

For the Filling

• ½ lb ground beef

• ½ small onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp oil (for cooking beef)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet and cook the beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Pancake Dough

In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and green onions into a soft dough. Add more flour if too sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Pancakes

Divide dough into 8 portions. Flatten each into 3-inch patties. Place 1 tbsp beef filling in the center of one patty, top with another, and seal edges. Flatten slightly. Repeat with all.

Step 4: Fry the Pancakes

Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each pancake for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Drain on paper towels and serve hot with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate until ready to assemble.

• Cheesy Upgrade – Add shredded cheese to the mashed potato dough for extra flavor.

• Different Meats – Swap beef with ground chicken, turkey, or sausage.

• Air Fryer Option – Brush pancakes with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Cold or room-temperature mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe.

2. Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes! Shape the pancakes, refrigerate, and fry just before serving for the crispiest texture.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to keep them crispy.

4. Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes! Freeze uncooked pancakes on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry straight from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling are hearty, crispy, and full of flavor — a perfect dish to use up leftover mashed potatoes and turn them into something exciting. Serve them hot with sour cream, and watch them disappear fast!