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!
