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Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the peeled and cut potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Beef Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Season the beef mixture with smoked paprika, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until well combined, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. Form the Potato Cakes
- Take a small handful of mashed potatoes and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center, followed by a small handful of shredded cheese.
- Fold the edges of the mashed potatoes over the filling, forming a patty shape to enclose the filling completely. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and filling.
4. Coat the Potato Cakes
- Lightly coat each potato cake in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally, roll in breadcrumbs to form an even coating.
5. Fry Until Golden
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the potato cakes in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes
- Chill the Mashed Potatoes: Letting the mashed potatoes cool completely before forming the cakes will make them easier to shape and less likely to fall apart.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try swapping out the cheese for a different flavor profile – Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese are all delicious options.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate some finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Bake Instead of Fry: For a lighter version, bake the potato cakes on a greased baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side of Salad: Balance out the richness of the potato cakes by serving them with a fresh, crisp green salad.
- As a Snack or Appetizer: Make smaller potato cakes for a delicious appetizer or snack.
- With a Dipping Sauce: Serve with sour cream, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce for dipping.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked potato cakes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Why These Potato Cakes are a Comfort Food Classic
Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes bring together the classic flavors of meat, potatoes, and cheese in a creative way. The crispy exterior and the gooey, cheesy interior create a satisfying contrast that’s hard to resist. It’s a dish that reminds you of home-cooked comfort meals, with a bit of extra indulgence thanks to the melted cheese.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers on both flavor and comfort, give Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes a try. They’re not just delicious; they’re also versatile enough to be a main course, side dish, or even a tasty appetizer. With just a few steps, you can create a dish that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Enjoy the perfect bite of crispy, cheesy, and meaty goodness!