Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together crispy potato patties filled with a savory beef mixture and melted cheddar cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or as a tasty snack.

Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
1 pound ground beef
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   In a bowl, mix the grated potatoes with a pinch of salt. Squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. Cook the Potato Patties:
   Heat a small amount of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Form the grated potatoes into patties and fry until golden brown on both sides. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Cook the Beef Filling:
   In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed and cook the ground beef until browned. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onions are translucent and the beef is cooked through.
4. Assemble the Potato Cakes:
   Place a spoonful of the beef mixture on a potato patty. Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and then cover with another potato patty, pressing the edges to seal the filling inside.
5. Fry the Stuffed Potato Cakes:
   Heat a bit more olive oil in the pan and fry the stuffed potato cakes until they are crispy and golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve:
   Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, beefy goodness!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for cooking, totaling about 40 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Cheese Variants: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or chili powder to the beef filling for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potato cakes in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen grated potatoes?
   Yes, frozen grated potatoes can be used, but ensure they are thawed and excess moisture is removed.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the patties and filling in advance and assemble them just before frying.
3. How can I make them gluten-free?
   This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as no additional flour is added.
4. What dipping sauces pair well with these cakes?
   Sour cream, salsa, or a spicy aioli are great options.
5. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Is it possible to use leftover mashed potatoes?
   Yes, leftover mashed potatoes can be formed into patties and filled similarly.
7. What other fillings can I use?
   Cooked chicken, cheese and spinach, or even a mix of vegetables can be great alternatives.
8. Can I freeze these?
   Yes, freeze the uncooked assembled cakes. Thaw and fry when ready to serve.
9. How do I know when the beef is cooked through?
   The beef should be browned and no longer pink in the center, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
10. What can I serve alongside these potato cakes?
    A simple salad or steamed vegetables make a great side dish.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes are a hearty and delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, these crispy, cheesy cakes are bound to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with variations and sharing them with family and friends!

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