Introduction: Cheesy Meat and Potato Patties are a hearty, flavorful dish that combines ground meat, mashed potatoes, and melted cheese into a crispy, golden patty. They make a satisfying meal for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. These patties are a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes while packing in a punch of flavor with savory meat and cheese. They’re simple to prepare and deliciously comforting!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or any ground meat of your choice)
2 cups mashed potatoes (freshly made or leftover)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Coat each patty with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry each patty for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.
Description:
Cheesy Meat and Potato Patties are a deliciously crispy treat that combines savory ground meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey melted cheese into a perfectly bite-sized meal. The crispy golden exterior gives way to a soft and cheesy center that is full of flavor. These patties are not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for variations based on your favorite meats and cheeses.
Tips:
Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker meal or make fresh mashed potatoes if preferred. Just ensure they are cooled slightly before mixing.
For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the patty mixture.
Be sure not to overfill the patties with cheese, as it may ooze out during frying. A small amount is perfect for that gooey bite.
If you prefer baking instead of frying, you can place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
If you want a crunchier crust, dip the patties in egg wash before coating with breadcrumbs.
Variations:
Cheesy Bacon Meat and Potato Patties: Add crumbled crispy bacon to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Meat and Potato Patties: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or add chopped vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a meat-free alternative.
Herb Infused Patties: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the mixture for a fragrant, savory touch.
Corrections:
If your patties are falling apart while frying, it could be due to too much moisture in the mashed potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are well-drained and not too wet before mixing.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to prevent them from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. Medium heat is ideal for a crispy, golden exterior.
If the patties are too thick, you can flatten them slightly to help them cook more evenly and faster.
Enjoy:
Cheesy Meat and Potato Patties are best enjoyed while still hot and crispy. Serve them as a hearty snack, main dish, or even as a side to a fresh salad or dip of your choice. Their crispy exterior and cheesy, savory filling will make them a favorite in your household!