There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming humble ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are exactly that. Taking inspiration from classic potato pancakes and infusing them with a savory, seasoned ground beef filling creates a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and truly unique. It’s a brilliant way to repurpose leftovers or simply create a delicious, well-rounded dinner.

Why This Recipe is a Favorite

This recipe is a true favorite because it combines two beloved comfort foods into one incredible package. The crispy, golden exterior of the potato pancake gives way to a soft, fluffy potato interior, perfectly contrasting with the savory, rich ground beef filling. It’s a dish that feels homemade and special, yet is surprisingly approachable to make. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, reducing food waste and turning it into something truly spectacular. It’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even as a unique appetizer for a gathering.

Ingredients

Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need to create these delightful Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling:

Ingredients (Makes 8–10 pancakes):

For the Mashed Potato Dough:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes, cold or warm (leftover or freshly made, without too much added liquid)
• 1 large egg, beaten (to bind the pancakes)
• 2–3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs (adjust as needed for consistency)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese or 2 tablespoons chopped chives for extra flavor

For the Ground Beef Filling:

• ½ lb (250g) ground beef (lean ground beef works well)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor

For Frying:

• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying

For Serving (Optional):

• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Applesauce (for a sweet and savory contrast)

Swaps and Notes

• Mashed Potatoes: The consistency of your mashed potatoes is key. If they are too thin, you might need to add more flour or breadcrumbs to the dough to make it manageable. If they are very thick, a tiny splash of milk might help. Avoid very buttery or creamy mashed potatoes as they can make the pancakes harder to form and fry.
• Binder: The egg is crucial for binding the potato dough. If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add more flour or breadcrumbs until it’s easy to handle.
• Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option. Ensure the meat is fully cooked and drained of excess fat before mixing with seasonings.
• Filling Flavor: Feel free to get creative with the filling. A pinch of cumin for a Southwestern twist, or some dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair, could be delicious.
• Cheese/Chives in Dough: Adding cheese or chives to the potato dough elevates the flavor of the pancake itself.
• Frying Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point. You’ll need enough to generously coat the bottom of your skillet.

Steps for the Recipe

1. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling: In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, and optional smoked paprika or red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potato Dough: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs, mixing until a workable dough forms. The dough should be firm enough to handle but still soft. If it’s too sticky, add another tablespoon of flour/breadcrumbs. If using, stir in the grated cheddar cheese or chopped chives.
3. Assemble the Pancakes: Take a portion of the mashed potato dough (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a disc in the palm of your hand. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cooled ground beef filling in the center of the potato disc. Carefully bring the edges of the potato dough up and around the filling, sealing it completely to form a ball. Gently flatten the ball into a disc-shaped pancake, about ½ inch thick. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
4. Fry the Pancakes: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the assembled potato pancakes in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
5. Cook to Golden Perfection: Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the pancakes are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.
6. Serve: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley. Applesauce also makes a surprisingly delicious accompaniment.

Tips for Success

• Cold Potatoes are Your Friend: Cold mashed potatoes are often easier to work with as they are firmer and less sticky. If using warm potatoes, you might need a bit more flour/breadcrumbs.
• Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to overfill the pancakes, as this can make them difficult to seal and prone to breaking open during frying.
• Even Thickness: Try to make your pancakes a consistent thickness so they cook evenly.
• Medium Heat for Frying: This allows the pancakes to get golden and crispy without burning the outside before the inside is thoroughly heated.
• Batch Cooking: Cook in batches to maintain the skillet’s temperature and ensure proper browning.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are a complete and satisfying meal on their own. However, they pair wonderfully with simple sides that complement their savory richness. A fresh green salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or even a simple bowl of applesauce (a surprisingly delicious traditional pairing for potato pancakes) would be excellent.

If you enjoy other hearty, one-pan (or almost one-pan) dishes, you might also like:

• This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
• These Chicken Enchiladas are My Go-To for Cozy Crowd-Pleasing Dinners

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, the best method is to use a toaster oven, air fryer, or a skillet over medium heat to help them regain their crispy exterior. Microwaving will heat them through but might make them soft. You can also freeze cooked and cooled pancakes for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven or toaster oven until heated through and crispy.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you appreciate dishes that are comforting, flavorful, and perhaps a little unexpected, be sure to explore more recipes on ChefManiac.com:

• This Crockpot Nacho Dip is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers – perfect for game day or a casual get-together.
• This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort – for another deeply flavorful and satisfying meal.
• This Baked Brie Appetizer is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests – a simple yet sophisticated start to any dinner.

Final Thoughts

These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are a delightful and incredibly satisfying dish that truly delivers on flavor and comfort. They’re a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients and create something memorable for your family and friends. Give them a try and discover your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes!

What are your favorite ways to use up leftover mashed potatoes? Share your tips and feedback in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow ChefManiac.com for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes!