Savory Potato Pancakes with Cheese and Tomato Filling
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
These Savory Potato Pancakes with Cheese and Tomato Filling are the perfect fusion of crispy golden pancakes and a fresh, cheesy center. Packed with grated potatoes, melty mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes, these pancakes are satisfying, wholesome, and full of flavor. Serve them hot and gooey for a cozy breakfast, lunch, or light dinner. The addition of fresh dill brings a subtle herbaceous note that perfectly balances the rich cheese and hearty potatoes.
Ingredients
For the Potato Pancakes:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and finely grated
- 1 onion, finely grated
- 3 eggs
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
For the Filling:
- 6 small ripe tomatoes, diced
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
- 150 g (about 1 ½ cups) grated mozzarella cheese
Optional:
- Extra mozzarella or cheese of choice, for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion and Potatoes
- Grate the onion and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Grate the potatoes, then place them in a kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This ensures a crispy texture.
2. Mix the Batter
- To the bowl with onion and potatoes, add eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually stir in flour until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky. The batter should hold together but not be too dry.
3. Prepare the Filling
- In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped dill, and grated mozzarella.
- Divide the filling into 4 portions for even stuffing.
4. Fry the Potato Pancakes
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Spoon a portion of the potato batter into the pan and flatten it into a round pancake.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Repeat for the remaining batter.
5. Add the Filling
- Once all pancakes are fried, place them on a plate.
- Spoon one portion of the tomato-cheese filling onto half of each pancake.
- Fold each pancake over to form a half-moon shape.
6. Bake the Pancakes
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Arrange the stuffed pancakes on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake for 15 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
7. Serve Warm
- Let cool slightly, then serve while hot and melty.
- These pancakes pair perfectly with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a garlic dipping sauce.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary.
FAQs
1. Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend or potato starch as a binding agent.
2. Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely. Try cheddar, gouda, or feta for a bolder flavor. A cheese blend also adds depth.
3. How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure the potatoes are well-drained and the pan is hot before frying.
4. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate unbaked stuffed pancakes for up to 24 hours, or freeze them (see below).
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Use ripe tomatoes for the freshest, juiciest filling.
- Grate potatoes finely to help them hold together.
- Control the heat while frying—medium is best to cook evenly without burning.
- Serve with sauces like sour cream, garlic yogurt, or pesto for extra flavor.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until crispy.
Freeze:
Freeze fried (but unbaked) pancakes by wrapping them individually. Bake from frozen at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes.
Reheat:
For best results, reheat in the oven. Avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy.
Conclusion
These Savory Potato Pancakes with Cheese and Tomato Filling are everything you want in a comforting, cheesy, crispy meal. Simple to make and incredibly versatile, they’re perfect for a family meal or a casual gathering. With the option to prep ahead and customize the filling, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!