If you’re searching for a dish that combines soft potatoes, savory meat, fragrant herbs, and a velvety cream sauce all rolled up into a crispy golden shell, this is it. These Stuffed Potato and Meat Rolls with Creamy Herb Sauce are a hearty, rustic dish perfect for cozy family dinners or impressive entertaining.
With layers of texture—creamy inside, crispy outside—and infused with garlic, onions, and herbs like rosemary and oregano, this recipe will transport you to the heart of European homestyle cooking.
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Cuisine: Central European / German-Inspired Comfort Food
Ingredients
For the base filling:
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3 eggs
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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100 ml (½ cup) milk
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1 teaspoon oregano
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30 g (2 tablespoons) butter
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500 g (1.1 lbs) potatoes, peeled and chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1 large onion, diced
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1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or ½ tsp dried rosemary
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250 g (0.5 lbs) ground meat (beef, veal, or a mix)
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1 bunch of green onions, chopped
For the creamy sauce:
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60 g (¼ cup) butter
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1 small onion, finely diced
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Salt, to taste
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200 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
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1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
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1–2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon nutmeg
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon flour
For shaping and frying:
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Dough or flatbread wraps (optional, can be potato-based or store-bought)
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Extra butter for sealing edges
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400 ml (2 cups) sunflower oil for frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Boil the potatoes
Place peeled, chopped potatoes into a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10–15 minutes until soft. Drain, mash with butter and garlic, and let cool slightly.
Prepare the egg mixture
In a bowl, whisk 3 eggs with salt, pepper, milk, and oregano. Set aside.
Sauté onions and herbs
In a large pan, heat oil and cook diced onion for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add rosemary and stir for another minute.
Cook the meat filling
Add ground meat to the sautéed onions. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned. Add salt, pepper, and chopped green onions. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Combine potatoes and egg
Fold the egg mixture into the mashed potatoes and stir until smooth.
Prepare the creamy sauce
Melt 60 g butter in a saucepan. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and flour, whisking constantly. Gradually pour in the cream. Add nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Simmer for 5–6 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
Form the rolls
On a flat surface, place a portion of the potato mixture. Flatten into an oval shape. Add a spoonful of meat filling in the center. Carefully roll or fold over to encase the filling, using extra butter to seal if needed. Alternatively, place the mixture inside a thin flatbread or dough square and wrap tightly.
Fry the rolls
Heat sunflower oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the rolls seam side down and fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve
Place the hot, crispy rolls on a plate and spoon the warm creamy parsley sauce on top. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (per serving – based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 490
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Protein: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fat: 33g
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Saturated Fat: 14g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 480mg
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Calcium: 12% DV
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Iron: 18% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish is reminiscent of traditional German and Eastern European cuisine, where hearty ingredients like potatoes, meat, and cream are cornerstones of daily meals. The idea of wrapping meat in a starch base—whether it’s dough, potato, or bread—has roots in rustic, peasant cooking meant to satisfy and stretch ingredients.
In modern kitchens, this version blends old-world charm with modern indulgence. Its crispy exterior and creamy interior are a hit with both kids and adults, and it’s a favorite on food blogs for its satisfying texture and flexibility.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Golden, crispy, and packed with flavor
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Great for using leftover mashed potatoes or meat
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Customizable with different proteins and herbs
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Perfect for make-ahead and freezing
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Pairs beautifully with wine or beer
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Can be made gluten-free or vegetarian
Health Benefits
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Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C
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Garlic and onions support immunity and digestion
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Parsley is rich in antioxidants and vitamin K
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Cream provides calcium and healthy fats
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Moderate protein from eggs and beef keeps you full
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a light cucumber salad or coleslaw
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Pair with roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
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Add a spoonful of cranberry chutney or mustard
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Serve with a crusty roll and German mustard
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Top with extra fried onions for crunch
Cooking Tips
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Use cold mashed potatoes for easier handling
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Let the filling cool before rolling to prevent breaking
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Use an ice cream scoop to portion evenly
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Add breadcrumbs to the outside for extra crispiness
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Use a nonstick pan and don’t overcrowd when frying
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Wipe the pan between batches for cleaner oil
Variations to Try
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Make it vegetarian using mushrooms and lentils
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Use sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash instead of regular potatoes
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Add grated cheese to the meat filling for a meltier bite
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Try different herbs like thyme, dill, or sage
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Use filo dough or puff pastry for a flakier shell
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Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the sauce for tang
Conclusion
These Stuffed Potato and Meat Rolls with Creamy Herb Sauce are the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor. Every bite is soft, rich, and comforting, with just enough crunch to keep it exciting. Whether you’re honoring old traditions or looking for something new, this recipe brings warmth to the table.
Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or weeknight feasts, you’ll find yourself coming back to this one again and again.
FAQ
1. Can I make these in advance?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them before cooking.
2. What type of meat works best?
Beef, veal, or lamb are all excellent. You can also use chicken, turkey, or a meatless alternative.
3. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes. Brush with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, flipping once.
4. How long does the cream sauce keep?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
5. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. Just make sure they’re firm and not overly buttery.
6. What’s a good side dish?
Cabbage salad, cucumber yogurt salad, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
7. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour in the sauce and ensure the wraps (if using) are gluten-free.
8. What oil is best for frying?
Sunflower oil is traditional, but any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works.
9. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes. Tortilla wraps, phyllo dough, or puff pastry can all be used.
10. Can I make it spicy?
Sure! Add chili flakes, cayenne, or spicy paprika to the meat filling or sauce.