Potato cakes, with their crispy exterior and creamy interior, are a beloved comfort food enjoyed by many. By adding a savory filling of seasoned beef and gooey cheese, you can elevate this humble dish into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes, a delicious combination of tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and melted cheese that’s sure to please your taste buds. Get ready to indulge in a comforting and hearty dish that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces ground beef
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add the butter and milk to the bowl, and mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- To assemble the potato cakes, take a spoonful of mashed potatoes and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a spoonful of the cooked beef mixture and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of the potato round.
- Fold the edges of the potato round over the filling, shaping it into a disc or patty. Repeat with the remaining mashed potatoes and beef mixture to make more potato cakes.
- Place the assembled potato cakes on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of each potato cake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the potato cakes are golden brown and heated through.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot with sour cream on the side for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Be sure to thoroughly drain the cooked potatoes before mashing to prevent the potato cakes from becoming too wet.
- Customize the seasoning of the beef mixture to suit your taste preferences. You can add ingredients like chili powder, cumin, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- For a crispier exterior, you can lightly coat the potato cakes with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Make sure the potato cakes are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Leftover potato cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Variations:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.
- Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss, to change up the flavor profile of the potato cakes.
Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory beef and melted cheese for a flavor-packed dish. Whether served as a hearty appetizer, a comforting side dish, or a main course, these potato cakes are sure to be a hit with family and friends. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats to enjoy any time you’re craving a comforting and indulgent meal. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes!