Looking for a delicious and unique side dish or a satisfying appetizer? Look no further than these Crispy Cheesy Potato Fritters! They offer a delightful twist on potato pancakes, boasting a crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Ingredients:
- 3 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes: Boil the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain them well and let them cool slightly.
- Mash (partially): Using a fork, mash the potatoes partially. Don’t mash them completely; you want some texture in the fritters.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. If using, add the diced bell pepper and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the partially mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheese, eggs, flour, breadcrumbs (optional), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until everything is incorporated.
- Form the fritters: Scoop out a generous spoonful of the mixture and gently shape it into a patty.
- Fry until golden brown: Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the fritters and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy mayo.
Tips:
- For extra crispy fritters, let the batter sit for 10-15 minutes before frying. This allows the breadcrumbs (if using) to absorb some of the moisture.
- You can adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Cook the fritters in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven until warmed through.
Enjoy these delicious and unique Crispy Cheesy Potato Fritters! They’re sure to become a new favorite.