Cheesy Potato Pancakes with Mushroom Filling and Mozzarella

These Cheesy Potato Pancakes with Mushroom Filling and Mozzarella are the perfect comfort food, combining crispy potato pancakes with a creamy, savory mushroom-carrot filling and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Paired with a tangy sour cream and garlic sauce, this dish is great for family meals, snacks, or special occasions.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Potato Pancakes:

  • 3 medium potatoes (about 500g), grated
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 onion, finely diced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) vegetable oil for frying

For the Mushroom Filling:

  • 250g (2 cups) mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium carrots, grated
  • 1/2 onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/3 cup (70ml) heavy cream
  • 150g (1.5 cups) mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian herb mix

For the Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp (60g) sour cream
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped

Directions

  • Prepare the Potato Pancakes:
    • Grate the potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture.
    • Mix the grated potatoes with eggs, flour, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
    • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet and fry small portions of the mixture until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.
  • Prepare the Mushroom Filling:
    • Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft.
    • Add mushrooms and carrots, cooking until the liquid evaporates.
    • Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Assemble and Bake:
    • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Place half of the pancakes on a baking sheet. Spread the mushroom filling on top, sprinkle with mozzarella, and cover with another pancake.
    • Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts.
  • Prepare the Sauce:
    • Mix sour cream with garlic, salt, pepper, and dill. Serve alongside the pancakes.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with a green salad for a refreshing contrast.
  2. Pair with tomato soup for a hearty meal.
  3. Add a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
  4. Serve with a dollop of applesauce for a sweet and savory twist.
  5. Top with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips

  1. Grate the potatoes finely for a smoother texture.
  2. Thoroughly squeeze out moisture from the potatoes to ensure crispy pancakes.
  3. Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
  4. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, earthy note.
  5. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup when baking.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Potatoes: Rich in potassium and vitamin C.
  • Mushrooms: High in antioxidants and B vitamins.
  • Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene and fiber.
  • Mozzarella: Provides calcium and protein.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Yes
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
  • Low-Carb Option: Reduce potatoes and add more vegetables.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g

Storage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and cheesy textures.
  2. Easy to customize with your favorite fillings.
  3. Family-friendly and ideal for any occasion.
  4. A great way to use up pantry staples.
  5. Delicious both fresh and reheated.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Potato Pancakes with Mushroom Filling and Mozzarella are a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether served as a main dish or a hearty snack, they’re guaranteed to satisfy. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a go and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free flour substitute.
  2. Can I prepare the pancakes ahead of time? Absolutely, fry them and refrigerate, then reheat before serving.
  3. What other fillings can I use? Try spinach and ricotta, sautéed onions, or ground beef.
  4. Can I skip the cheese? Yes, but the texture and flavor will be less creamy.
  5. Can I make them vegan? Replace eggs with flaxseed meal, cream with plant-based cream, and cheese with vegan cheese.