These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Meat Filling are a delicious twist on classic potato cakes. Made with cold mashed potatoes, they have a creamy interior, a crispy golden crust, and a juicy meat filling that makes them completely irresistible.
For the Mashed Potato Dough:
2 cups cold mashed potatoes (unsalted or lightly salted)
1 large egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Meat Filling:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 pound ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Frying:
3–4 tablespoons vegetable oil for pan-frying
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes, until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef (or meat of choice), breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes).
Optional: Stir in chopped parsley.
Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.
In a large bowl, add the cold mashed potatoes.
Crack in the egg, sprinkle in flour, salt, and pepper.
Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. If too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
The dough should be easy to handle and not cling to your hands excessively.
Lightly flour your hands and work surface.
Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of potato dough and flatten it into a 3-inch circle.
Place a spoonful (about 1 tablespoon) of the meat filling in the center.
Gently fold the edges over the filling and seal.
Flatten into a patty shape, about ½ inch thick.
Repeat until all dough and filling are used.
In a large non-stick skillet, heat 3–4 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
Place the pancakes into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Use cold mashed potatoes – Hot or overly creamy mashed potatoes won’t hold together well.
Let the filling cool – Prevents the dough from tearing.
Don’t overstuff – A spoonful of meat is enough for each pancake.
Freeze option – Freeze cooked pancakes individually, then store in a bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating tip – Reheat in a dry skillet or air fryer for best texture.