If comfort food had a secret handshake, Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling would be the VIP invite. Imagine crispy potato cakes hugging a savory ground beef and onion center—each golden bite is soothing, satisfying, and just a little bit irresistible. This recipe brings together classic mashed potatoes and deeply flavorful ground beef, all wrapped up in a pan-fried package that makes any night feel special. Whether you’re craving something new with leftovers or simply want to wow your table with a hearty, homemade meal, these pancakes serve up cozy flavors and nostalgic charm every time.

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how simple yet perfectly balanced the ingredients are—each one plays a key supporting role, from the earthiness of potatoes to the warm savoriness of ground beef. These familiar kitchen staples combine to build flavor, give the pancakes their irresistible texture, and add lively pops of color and freshness.

Cold mashed potatoes: Using leftovers or pre-chilled mashed potatoes gives the pancakes structure and makes them easier to shape.
All-purpose flour: Just enough flour binds the potato mixture, helping the pancakes hold together and crisp beautifully.
Large egg: This ingredient adds moisture and helps create that perfect pancake consistency.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that let the classic flavors shine through.
Chopped chives or green onions (optional): These add fresh color and a subtle oniony lift to the potatoes.
Oil or butter (for frying): A generous slick in the pan creates a golden, crispy exterior—choose whichever you prefer for flavor.
Ground beef (½ pound): The star of the filling, bringing savory richness and a hearty texture.
Finely chopped onion (½ small): Mixed into the beef, it gets sweet and tender as everything cooks together.
Minced garlic: Just one clove for an aromatic boost that complements the beef perfectly.
Paprika: A dash adds warmth and a subtle smoky note to the filling.
Extra salt and pepper for the filling: Because perfectly seasoned beef makes all the difference.

How to Make Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

Start by adding your ground beef and finely chopped onion to a skillet over medium heat. Stir and break up the beef as it browns, letting the onions soften and turn fragrant. After about 6 to 8 minutes, your beef should be golden and cooked through. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, then cook for one more minute to let the spices bloom and blend. Take the pan off the heat and let the filling cool just a bit—you want it warm, not blazing, for easy assembly.

Step 2: Mix the Potato Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cold mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, black pepper, and chives (if using). Stir with a sturdy spoon or use clean hands to bring everything together. You’re aiming for a soft but workable dough. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour in small increments until it’s easy to shape.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Pancakes

Divide the potato dough into 8 even portions. Take each portion and pat it into a 4-inch disc. Set aside 4 of your rounds—they’ll act as lids later! On the remaining 4 rounds, scoop about two tablespoons of the beef filling into the center. Gently lay a reserved potato round on top, then press and pinch the edges all the way around to seal. Flatten slightly into thick pancakes so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Pan-Fry Until Golden

Heat oil or butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully slide in your assembled pancakes. There should be just enough room so they aren’t crowded—if needed, cook in batches. Fry each pancake for 3 to 4 minutes per side, watching as the outsides turn crisp and golden while the centers heat through. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain briefly before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

These are best enjoyed warm from the skillet. Serve up Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling on their own, or add a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for a bright, tangy contrast to the rich filling and crusty potato. Let everyone dig in while the centers are still steamy and melty.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling

Garnishes

The right garnish transforms these pancakes into a restaurant-worthy plate. Try a generous spoonful of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley, or even a quick drizzle of hot sauce if you love a spicy punch. For a special touch, add a little grated cheese or a few pickled onions—each adds a pop of flavor and color on top of your Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling.

Side Dishes

Balance the hearty richness of Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling with crisp, fresh sides. A simple cucumber or tomato salad brightens up the plate, or serve alongside sautéed green beans or a pile of grated carrot slaw. If you want to lean into the comfort-food vibes, a cup of clear broth or vegetable soup makes a homey and satisfying combination.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these savory pancakes into a main event! Stack them up like a savory cake and slice into wedges, or arrange as mini sliders with a dollop of sauce between each layer for sharing. Miniaturize them as appetizer bites for a party, complete with toothpicks and dipping sauces on the side. However you present them, Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with a few extra pancakes, allow them to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separated by pieces of parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to three days and remain delicious when reheated.

Freezing

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling freeze surprisingly well! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place parchment between each pancake and stack inside a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Bring leftover pancakes back to life by reheating them in a nonstick skillet with a bit of oil or butter over medium-low heat. This restores the crispy edges while keeping the insides soft. Alternatively, pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes for a super-crisp finish. The microwave also works in a pinch, though they’ll be a bit softer.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes will work if you don’t have homemade leftovers handy. Just make sure they’re cold and firm, as that gives the dough structure and makes the pancakes easier to shape and fry.

Can I add cheese to the filling?

Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese to the beef filling or even to the potato dough gives the Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling an extra gooey and flavorful middle. Try sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melty cheese for the best results.

Are these pancakes gluten-free?

Traditionally, this recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make a gluten-free version, simply swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well for any dietary concerns.

What dipping sauces go well with these pancakes?

Classic sour cream is a time-tested favorite, but don’t stop there! Herbed yogurt, spicy ketchup, creamy horseradish, or garlicky aioli all complement the hearty flavors of Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling. Feel free to mix and match to suit your mood.

Can I prepare these in advance for a party?

Yes! You can assemble the pancakes ahead of time, refrigerate them (uncooked) for a few hours, and then fry just before guests arrive. Or cook them completely and reheat in the oven or air fryer as guests mingle. Either way, they’re a delightful crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about transforming simple leftovers into something as inviting as Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling. Every bite brings warmth to your table and a smile to anyone lucky enough to taste them. Give this recipe a go—I promise it’ll quickly become a cherished favorite in your comfort food rotation!

Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Mashed Potato Pancakes with Ground Beef Filling are a delicious twist on traditional pancakes. Crispy on the outside, savory and flavorful on the inside, they make for a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

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Mashed Potato Pancakes:

2 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions (optional)
1 tablespoon oil or butter (for frying)

Ground Beef Filling:

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 small onion (finely chopped)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Potato Dough: In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and chives until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
Assemble the Pancakes: Flatten each piece into a 4-inch round. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of 4 rounds, then top with the remaining 4 rounds, pinching the edges to seal and flatten slightly.
Cook the Pancakes: Heat oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook pancakes for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
Serve: Serve warm with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.