- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
For the Mashed Potato Pancakes:
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold or at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (adjust as needed for binding)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives)
- Avocado slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking apart the meat with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
- Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly. Optional: Stir in shredded cheese for added richness.
2. Make the Mashed Potato Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the mixture holds together but isn’t too sticky. Add more flour if needed for a workable consistency.
3. Assemble the Pancakes
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mashed potato mixture into your hand and flatten it into a disc.
- Place a spoonful of the ground beef filling in the center of the disc.
- Carefully fold the edges of the mashed potato mixture over the filling, sealing it completely. Gently reshape into a patty, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.
4. Fry the Pancakes
- Heat 2–3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the stuffed potato patties in the skillet, flattening them slightly with a spatula.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, adding more oil as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, fresh herbs, or avocado slices.
- Enjoy every bite of these crispy, savory, and indulgent Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling!
- Perfect as a standalone main course or paired with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better and are less likely to fall apart during frying.
- Switch Proteins: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, sausage, or plant-based alternatives for variety.
- Add Cheese: Stir shredded cheese into the ground beef filling or sprinkle it on top of the pancakes before serving for extra gooeyness.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to restore crispiness.
Why This Recipe Works
These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling combine the creamy, comforting texture of mashed potatoes with the rich, savory flavors of spiced ground beef into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender filling, while the optional toppings add layers of flavor. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, looking for a way to elevate your leftovers, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, these Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are sure to delight. Their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make them a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, their versatility means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these pancakes might just inspire others to try them too! 🍴✨
