Cheesy Potato Patties with Garlic Sauce

These Cheesy Potato Patties with Garlic Sauce are a comforting, flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The crispy, golden potato patties are filled with cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs, and served with a creamy, tangy garlic sauce. The garlic sauce adds a refreshing, savory finish to the patties, making them irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a tasty side dish, or a satisfying snack, these patties will surely delight your taste buds.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 people

Cuisine

These cheesy potato patties are inspired by classic potato-based dishes, combined with fresh herbs and a flavorful garlic sauce. It’s a delightful fusion of comfort food and fresh flavors, perfect for both casual meals and more formal gatherings.

Full List of Ingredients

For the Potato Patties:

• 3 potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 egg
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons flour
• Sunflower oil, for frying
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• A bunch of green onions, chopped
• 100 grams of cheese, grated (your choice of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella)
• Italian herbs, to taste
• Hot pepper powder, to taste

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons sour cream
• A bunch of dill, chopped
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Paprika, to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes
   Peel and grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is essential for ensuring the patties hold together well when frying.

2. Mix the Patty Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, egg, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, flour, and Italian herbs. Add the grated cheese, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and hot pepper powder to the mixture. Stir well to combine until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Form the Patties
   Take small portions of the mixture and form them into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should get about 8-10 patties, depending on the size you make.

4. Fry the Patties
   Heat sunflower oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

5. Prepare the Garlic Sauce
   While the patties are frying, prepare the garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and paprika. Stir well to combine, adjusting the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a little more sour cream.

6. Serve
   Once the patties are cooked and the garlic sauce is ready, serve the cheesy potato patties with a generous dollop of garlic sauce on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra chopped dill or green onions, if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 40 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Potato-based dishes are a staple in many cultures worldwide, known for their versatility and ability to satisfy hunger. This recipe combines classic flavors, such as potatoes and cheese, with a creamy, savory garlic sauce. The addition of fresh vegetables like tomatoes and green onions adds a refreshing touch to the dish, making it even more flavorful.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Cheesy: The crispy, golden brown crust and melted cheese inside make these patties incredibly satisfying.
2. Flavorful Garlic Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce with fresh dill perfectly complements the savory patties.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, this recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t require much effort.
4. Customizable: You can adjust the level of spice by adding more hot pepper powder or use different herbs to suit your taste.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or main course, these patties are sure to be a hit.

Health Benefits

1. Potatoes: Potatoes are a great source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy and filling ingredient.
2. Cheese: Cheese provides calcium and protein, which support bone health and muscle function.
3. Garlic and Dill: Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties, and dill is packed with antioxidants that support overall health.

Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad: Serve these patties with a fresh green salad or a tangy cucumber salad to balance the richness of the cheese and garlic sauce.
2. As a Snack: These patties are perfect as a quick snack or appetizer for parties or gatherings.
3. With Rice or Roasted Vegetables: Pair the patties with a side of rice or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.

Cooking Tips

1. Make Sure to Drain the Potatoes Well: Removing excess moisture from the potatoes ensures that the patties hold together and fry well.
2. Use a Non-Stick Pan: To make frying easier and prevent the patties from sticking, use a non-stick frying pan or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet.
3. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot pepper powder or skip it altogether.

Variations to Try

1. Sweet Potato Patties: Substitute the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and extra nutrition.
2. Add More Vegetables: Add grated carrots, zucchini, or peas to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
3. Spicy Garlic Sauce: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the garlic sauce for an extra spicy kick.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Potato Patties with Garlic Sauce are a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy patties, combined with the creamy, tangy garlic sauce, create a well-balanced and flavorful meal. Whether served as a snack, side, or main dish, these patties are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves comforting, hearty food.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time, refrigerate them, and fry them when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
   Yes, you can bake the patties at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes for a healthier version.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   Yes, you can use a flax or chia egg substitute and dairy-free cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.

4. Can I freeze the patties?
   Yes, freeze the uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing them before transferring them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from the freezer.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda, for different flavor profiles.

6. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet.

7. Can I add other spices to the patties?
   Yes, feel free to add your favorite spices, such as cumin, paprika, or oregano, to enhance the flavor.

8. Can I make the garlic sauce spicier?
   Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the garlic sauce for extra heat.

9. Can I make the patties without flour?
   Yes, you can substitute the flour with breadcrumbs or gluten-free flour to make them gluten-free.

10. What can I serve with these patties?
    Serve these patties with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.