These Classic Potato Pancakes are simple yet incredibly delicious! With just a few common ingredients, they are a hit with everyone, especially kids. Serve them with sour cream for a breakfast treat, or top them with a creamy mushroom sauce for a hearty, vegetarian dinner.
Why I Love This Recipe:
I’ve made these potato pancakes countless times, and they never disappoint. Here’s why you’ll love it too:
- Tested: I make them at least once a week.
- Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Simple: Just 5 ingredients.
- Filling: Keeps you satisfied.
- Tasty: Oh, it’s delicious!
What Kind of Potatoes Are Best?
I recommend russet potatoes because they have a high starch content, making them perfect for this recipe. Yukon Gold or Katahdin potatoes work well too. You can grate the potatoes by hand, but a food processor makes it faster and easier.
Can You Make Potato Pancakes Ahead of Time?
While these pancakes are best enjoyed fresh and crispy from the pan, you can freeze them. Cook them fully, then cool completely. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to freezer bags. To reheat, bake them at 450°F for about 15 minutes.
Potato Pancakes vs. Latkes
Potato pancakes and latkes are very similar, but latkes typically include ingredients like baking powder, matzo meal, and sometimes milk. This recipe for potato pancakes is simpler, using only potatoes, eggs, and flour.
How to Make Potato Pancakes (Latkes):
- Grate the Potatoes and Onion: Peel and cube the potatoes and onion. Use a food processor or a grater to process the vegetables until finely grated.
- Squeeze Out the Liquid: Place the grated mixture into a fine strainer or kitchen towel and squeeze out the excess liquid into a bowl. Keep the potato starch at the bottom of the bowl, as it helps with the texture.
- Mix the Ingredients: Return the potato mixture to the bowl and add eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Fry the Pancakes: Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet, pressing them slightly to flatten. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Place the pancakes on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve with sour cream, a fresh salad, or creamy mushroom sauce. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Potato Pancakes:
Traditionally, we serve them with sour cream. You can also pair them with applesauce or yogurt for a different twist.
These Classic Potato Pancakes are simple, yet unbelievably delicious! Follow this easy recipe and enjoy a crispy, tasty treat in no time.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories300
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
3g
5%
- Saturated Fat 1g 5%
- Trans Fat 1g
- Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat 1g
- Cholesterol 82mg 28%
- Sodium 290mg 13%
- Potassium 1622mg 47%
- Total Carbohydrate
76g
26%
- Dietary Fiber 6g 24%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 12g 24%
- Sugars 4%
- Protein 12%
- Vitamin A 1215%
- Vitamin C 23%
- Calcium 69%
- Iron 4%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.