Today, we’re sharing a delicious and simple recipe for Crispy Parmesan Potato Pies—a perfect dish for dinner or even as a snack. These potato pies are soft and creamy on the inside with a crispy, golden crust on the outside, making them an irresistible comfort food. Made with mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley, these pies are flavorful and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a main course, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Potatoes – 4 medium-sized
- Water – Enough to boil the potatoes
- Breadcrumbs – 80g
- Parmesan cheese – 100g, grated
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Eggs – 2
- Salt – To taste
- Black pepper – To taste
- Vegetable oil – For frying
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Peel and Boil the Potatoes: Begin by peeling 4 medium-sized potatoes and placing them in a pot filled with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fully tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes depending on their size. Test by piercing the potatoes with a fork—if they slide off easily, they’re ready.
- Drain and Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and allow them to cool slightly before mashing. Mash them until smooth and lump-free. You can use a potato masher, fork, or even a potato ricer for the best texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture
- Add Breadcrumbs and Parmesan: To the mashed potatoes, add 80 grams of breadcrumbs and 100 grams of grated Parmesan cheese. The breadcrumbs help bind the mixture, while the Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor.
- Finely Chop the Parsley: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley to the potato mixture. This adds a fresh, herby note that pairs well with the richness of the potatoes and cheese.
- Mix in the Eggs: Crack 2 eggs into the potato mixture, which will help bind everything together. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Season the Mixture: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, Parmesan cheese is salty, so you may not need much additional salt. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is well distributed.
Step 3: Shape and Fry the Potato Pies
- Form the Potato Cakes: Using your hands, take a small amount of the potato mixture and form it into small, flat cakes or patties. Aim for a size that fits comfortably in your palm, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Heat the Oil: Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to create a shallow fry, ensuring the pies develop a crispy, golden crust.
- Fry the Potato Pies: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato pies into the pan. Fry them on one side for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip the pies and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
- Drain the Excess Oil: Once the potato pies are golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the crispy Parmesan potato pies immediately, while they’re still warm and crispy. They pair well with a side of sour cream, ketchup, or even a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the Oil is Hot: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potato pies to the pan. If the oil is not hot enough, the pies will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the potato mixture into the pan; it should sizzle immediately.
- Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe works well with leftover mashed potatoes. If using leftovers, skip the boiling step and go straight to mixing in the breadcrumbs, cheese, and eggs.
- Shape Consistently: To ensure even cooking, try to make the potato pies roughly the same size. This will help them cook evenly and develop a uniform crispy crust.
- Add Variations: For added flavor, you can mix in other ingredients such as chopped onions, garlic, or even shredded cheese into the potato mixture. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover potato pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan or oven to restore their crispy texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked potato pies by placing them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Cook them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):
- Calories: 320-350 kcal
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 4-5g
- Sugar: 2-3g
- Sodium: 400-450mg
These Crispy Parmesan Potato Pies are a great source of carbohydrates from the potatoes, with added protein from the Parmesan cheese and eggs. The breadcrumbs and frying oil contribute to the fat content, but this dish offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, making it a satisfying and energy-rich meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I bake the potato pies instead of frying them? Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the potato pies in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. What other types of cheese can I use? While Parmesan adds a sharp and salty flavor, you can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. These will melt beautifully and create a slightly different flavor profile.
3. Can I make these potato pies gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture may differ slightly, but the taste will still be delicious.
4. Can I make the potato mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, shape the pies and fry them as instructed.
5. How can I make the pies even crispier? For an extra crispy texture, you can coat the outside of the potato pies in additional breadcrumbs before frying them. This will give them a crunchier crust.
Conclusion:
These Crispy Parmesan Potato Pies are an easy-to-make, comforting dish that brings together the best of mashed potatoes and crispy fried goodness. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor, while the breadcrumbs create the perfect crispy texture. Whether you serve them as a side dish, a snack, or a main course, these potato pies are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate comforting treat!