**Potato Cheese Pancakes: Crispy, Cheesy Perfection!**
If you’re craving a unique twist on breakfast or a flavorful side dish, Potato Cheese Pancakes are just what you need. These crispy, golden pancakes combine the comforting flavors of potatoes and melted cheese, creating a savory treat that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, these pancakes are sure to delight. Here’s how to make this scrumptious dish that brings a cheesy spin to classic potato pancakes.
### Ingredients
- **2 cups grated potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)**
- **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)**
- **1/2 cup all-purpose flour**
- **1/4 cup finely chopped onions (optional)**
- **1 large egg**
- **2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)**
- **Salt and black pepper to taste**
- **Vegetable oil or butter for frying**
### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Potatoes*
- Peel the potatoes and grate them using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is important for achieving crispy pancakes.
2. **Mix the Ingredients*
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, chopped onions (if using), egg, parsley or chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. **Form the Pancakes*
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil or butter.
- Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the skillet and flatten it with the back of the spoon to form a pancake about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
4. **Cook the Pancakes*
- Cook the pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid breaking them apart.
- Add more oil or butter to the skillet as needed between batches.
5. **Serve*
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley or chives if desired.
### Tips for Perfect Potato Cheese Pancakes
- **Use Starchy Potatoes* Russet or Idaho potatoes work best for crispy pancakes because they have a higher starch content.
- **Grate Finely* For even cooking and a better texture, grate the potatoes finely.
- **Dry Thoroughly* Removing excess moisture from the grated potatoes helps the pancakes become crispier.
- **Serve with Toppings* These pancakes pair well with sour cream, applesauce, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
### Why You’ll Love Potato Cheese Pancakes
- **Deliciously Savory* The combination of crispy potatoes and melted cheese makes for a mouthwatering treat that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
- **Versatile* Great for any meal of the day, these pancakes can be served as a main dish, side dish, or snack.
- **Easy to Make* With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these pancakes are easy to prepare and cook.
Potato Cheese Pancakes are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of potatoes and cheese in a crispy, golden form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delicious side, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the cheesy perfection and crispy goodness with every bite!
**Happy cooking and savoring!**