Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain thoroughly and return the potatoes to the warm pot for 1–2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Transfer the potatoes to a large bowl and mash until smooth.
Add the butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, chopped herbs, egg, and 3 tablespoons of flour.
Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together. Allow it to cool enough to handle comfortably.
If the mixture feels too sticky, add another tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes easy to shape.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
Place the mozzarella and optional cheddar in a small bowl and mix.
Cut the cheese into small cubes if you prefer a thick, stretchy center.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Take a portion of the potato mixture and flatten it in your palm to form a small disc.
Place approximately 1 tablespoon of cheese in the center.
Carefully fold the potato mixture around the cheese, sealing the edges completely so the cheese does not escape during cooking.
Gently flatten into a thick patty.
Repeat with the remaining potato mixture and cheese.
Tip: If the mixture is difficult to handle, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
Step 5: Coat the Patties
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Coat each patty lightly in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and then cover it completely with breadcrumbs.
Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the surface to help them stick.
For an extra-crispy crust, dip the patties in the egg and breadcrumbs a second time.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
Heat approximately 1–2 cm of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan without overcrowding them.
Fry for approximately 3–4 minutes per side, turning gently, until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Work in batches, allowing the oil to return to the correct temperature between batches.
Step 7: Let the Cheese Melt
Allow the patties to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Break one open while it is still warm to reveal the soft potato filling and delicious melted mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Prepare a Creamy Dipping Sauce
For a simple dipping sauce, combine:
- ½ cup sour cream or thick Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mix everything in a small bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Serve the warm potato patties with the creamy herb sauce.
Tips for Perfect Potato and Cheese Patties
- Choose starchy potatoes: They mash beautifully and help create a fluffy interior.
- Remove excess moisture: Well-drained potatoes make patties easier to shape and help prevent them from falling apart.
- Seal the cheese inside: Make sure there are no gaps in the potato coating.
- Do not use excessively hot oil: Medium heat helps the crust become golden while the cheese melts inside.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan: Frying a few patties at a time helps maintain a crispy exterior.
- Try different cheeses: Mozzarella provides a stretchy center, while cheddar adds a richer flavor.
Can You Make Them in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Lightly brush or spray the coated patties with oil and arrange them in a single layer.
Air-fry for approximately 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the patties and your air fryer.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in an oven at 180°C (350°F) or in an air fryer until heated through and crispy again.
You can also freeze the uncooked, breaded patties on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Cook from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed and ensuring the centers are thoroughly heated.
Enjoy these crispy, golden potato and cheese patties! With their crunchy coating, fluffy potato center, and gooey melted cheese, they are a delicious homemade treat that the whole family will love.
See more on the next page