Better Than Pizza! Crispy Potato Pancakes with Tomato & Cheese
This recipe is crispy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible! If you love pizza but want a quick, budget-friendly, and gluten-free alternative, these potato pancakes are a must-try!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
✔ 3 medium potatoes (grated & squeezed dry)
✔ 1 small onion (grated or finely chopped)
✔ 1 egg
✔ ½ teaspoon salt
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✔ ½ teaspoon Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
✔ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
✔ Vegetable oil for frying
Toppings:
✔ 1 large tomato (sliced)
✔ ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
✔ 1 green pepper (chopped, optional)
✔ ½ teaspoon dried oregano or basil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pancakes
- Grate the potatoes and onion. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel.
- In a bowl, mix potatoes, onion, egg, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and flour.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Spoon small mounds of potato mixture into the pan, flattening them into round pancakes.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown & crispy.
Step 2: Add Toppings & Finish
- Place a slice of tomato on each pancake while still in the pan.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and chopped green pepper.
- Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Sprinkle with oregano or basil, remove from the pan, and serve hot!
Notes & Tips:
✔ Extra Crispy? Soak grated potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes, then dry before mixing.
✔ Add More Protein: Top with a fried egg or crumbled feta.
✔ Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the mix.
✔ Dipping Sauce? Serve with garlic yogurt, sour cream, or marinara sauce!
Nutritional Info (Per Pancake Approx.):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 5g
- Fats: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Health Benefits:
🥔 Potatoes – Rich in fiber & energy-boosting carbs.
🧀 Cheese – Great source of calcium & protein.
🍅 Tomatoes – High in vitamin C & antioxidants.
Q&A:
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
✅ Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes on a greased baking sheet, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
✅ Absolutely! The pancakes will be slightly softer & naturally sweeter.
Q: How do I store & reheat leftovers?
✅ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a pan or oven.
😍 Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Would you like a video tutorial or more quick meal ideas? 😊