12 Potato Pancake Recipes For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dinner – crispy, golden, and endlessly versatile, these savory delights will become your new go-to meal any time of day. Whether you call them latkes or simply potato pancakes, these humble yet satisfying dishes have been warming hearts and filling bellies across cultures for generations. From classic Eastern European-style shreds bound with egg and onion to creative modern twists loaded with cheese, herbs, or even sweet potatoes, we’ve gathered a dozen foolproof recipes that showcase just how magical grated potatoes can be when transformed into crispy-edged perfection.
Imagine waking up to the sizzle of grated potatoes hitting a hot skillet, their edges turning golden brown while the centers stay tender – served with a dollop of cool sour cream or applesauce for breakfast. Picture a leisurely brunch spread featuring elegant smoked salmon-topped pancakes with crème fraîche and dill. Or envision a hearty dinner starring robust potato pancakes paired with roasted meats or stews. Each recipe in this collection offers its own unique take on this comfort food staple, proving that potato pancakes deserve a place at every meal.
Zucchini Potato Pancakes
Zucchini potato pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic potato pancake, combining the mild flavor of zucchini with the heartiness of potatoes. These pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a satisfying dish at any meal. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up – perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner!
The fresh taste of zucchini adds a unique touch, while the addition of herbs can elevate the flavor profile even more. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Grate the zucchinis and potatoes, then place them in a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, potatoes, onion, flour, eggs, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Pancakes: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of sour cream.
Potato Pancakes with Smoked Salmon
These potato pancakes topped with smoked salmon bring a delightful twist to traditional breakfast fare. The crispy exterior of the pancakes pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory flavor of the salmon, creating a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. Simple to make, this dish is perfect for a quick breakfast, a sophisticated brunch, or even a light dinner.
The combination of fresh herbs and capers enhances the flavors, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. You can whip these up in no time, and they are sure to impress anyone at your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1/2 cup grated onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 ounces smoked salmon
- 2 tablespoons capers
- Fresh dill (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes and onion. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. Add the egg, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
- Fry the Pancakes: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture for each pancake and flatten slightly. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve: Place the pancakes on a plate. Top each with smoked salmon, a few capers, and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Enjoy warm!
Sweet Potato Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Sweet potato pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. These pancakes are naturally sweet and have a warm, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with maple syrup. With their soft and fluffy texture, they make for a comforting meal, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner.
Not only are they delicious, but they’re also simple to prepare! You can whip up a batch in no time, making them a great choice for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Top them with maple syrup and your favorite nuts for an extra crunch!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Chopped pecans, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and chopped pecans on top.
Cheesy Potato Pancakes with Chives
Cheesy potato pancakes with chives are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The crispy exterior combined with the gooey melted cheese and fresh chives creates a comforting dish that’s both savory and satisfying.
These pancakes are easy to whip up and can be customized with your favorite cheese. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with a dollop of sour cream, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create your very own cheesy potato pancakes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Grate the potatoes and soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes. Drain and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the grated potatoes, cheese, chives, flour, eggs, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening slightly to form a pancake.
- Fry Until Golden: Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy the pancakes warm, topped with extra cheese or sour cream if desired.
Savory Herbed Potato Pancakes
Savory herbed potato pancakes are a delicious twist on a classic dish. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, thanks to the fluffy potatoes mixed with fresh herbs. The combination of flavors makes them a fantastic choice for any meal of the day.
These pancakes are easy to whip up, using simple ingredients that you probably have on hand. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives for an extra kick. They can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish at dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1/2 cup grated onion
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse the grated potatoes under cold water and drain well. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, flour, egg, baking powder, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Heat the Pan: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening them slightly.
- Cook: Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce!
Spicy Corn and Potato Fritters
Spicy corn and potato fritters are a delightful twist on traditional potato pancakes. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of sweet corn and tender potatoes, spiced just right, makes them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
Not only are they tasty, but they are also easy to whip up, making them a great option for those busy mornings. Whether you’re serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a spicy dipping sauce, these fritters are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, corn, onion, flour, egg, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot.
- Fry the Fritters: Spoon the mixture into the skillet, flattening each fritter with a spatula. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain: Remove the fritters and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Mediterranean Potato Pancakes with Feta
These Mediterranean potato pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional recipes. Infused with the tangy flavor of feta cheese and fresh herbs, they offer a unique taste experience that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. They are simple to make, bringing together pantry staples with minimal prep time.
The crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make these pancakes irresistible. Topped with olives and a dollop of yogurt, they are not just delicious but also visually appealing. You’ll love how quickly they come together, making them a great choice for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together grated potatoes, feta cheese, flour, eggs, green onions, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and flatten it slightly in the skillet.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil as needed.
- Serve warm, topped with olives and a dollop of yogurt for a tasty finish.
Classic Potato Latkes
Classic potato latkes are a delicious and crispy take on the traditional potato pancake, making them a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or any meal of the day. They’re packed with flavor and have a perfectly crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, warm center. Easy to make, these latkes require just a few simple ingredients, making them an accessible dish for home cooks of all skill levels.
Pair these golden delights with applesauce, sour cream, or your favorite toppings for a delightful treat. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, latkes are sure to impress. Let’s whip up a batch!
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: After grating the potatoes, place them in a clean dish towel and squeeze out the excess moisture.
- Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the Latkes: Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the latkes from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with applesauce or sour cream.
Curried Potato Pancakes
Curried potato pancakes are a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, offering a burst of flavor that’s both warm and comforting. These pancakes combine the earthy taste of potatoes with fragrant spices, creating a dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The blend of spices gives them a unique taste, making them a hit for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine.
Making these pancakes is simple and can be done in just a few easy steps. With ingredients you likely already have at home, you can whip up a batch in no time. Serve them with yogurt or your favorite chutney for a complete experience!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, onions, garlic, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Gradually add water until the mixture holds together.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Cook the Pancakes: Spoon the batter onto the skillet, flattening slightly to form pancakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve Warm: Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with yogurt or chutney of your choice.
Breakfast Potato Pancakes with Eggs
Breakfast potato pancakes topped with eggs are a delightful way to start your day. These golden, crispy pancakes are soft on the inside and pair perfectly with sunny-side-up eggs, creating a balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Not only are they delicious, but they are also quite simple to make, making them a great choice for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.
The pancakes get their hearty flavor from grated potatoes, which provide a satisfying base, while the eggs add richness and protein. This dish is versatile too; feel free to top it with avocado, fresh herbs, or your favorite sauce for an extra kick. It’s a wholesome option sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
- Butter or oil for frying
- 4 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Avocado slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, mix grated potatoes, flour, egg, milk, baking powder, salt, and chives until well combined.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of the potato mixture into the skillet for each pancake. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
- Fry the Eggs: In the same skillet, crack the eggs and cook until the whites are set, but the yolks are still runny, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble: Serve the potato pancakes topped with fried eggs and avocado slices. Enjoy!
Garlic Mashed Potato Pancakes
Garlic mashed potato pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional potato pancakes, bringing a burst of flavor to your breakfast, brunch, or dinner table. These pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, infused with the rich taste of garlic that elevates the humble potato. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for any meal.
Perfectly paired with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite sauce, these pancakes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you have leftover mashed potatoes or want to start fresh, this recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, minced garlic, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and chives. Mix until well combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening it slightly with the back of a spatula. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil as needed.
- Serve warm with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Loaded Potato Pancakes with Bacon
Loaded potato pancakes with bacon are a delicious twist on a classic breakfast dish. These pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, packed with flavorful ingredients like cheese, green onions, and crunchy bacon. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a great choice for any time of day.
The combination of savory bacon and melted cheese adds richness to the pancakes, while the green onions provide a fresh kick. Serve them topped with your favorite condiments like sour cream or hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, these loaded potato pancakes will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated potatoes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, egg, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Add Flavor: Fold in the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Pancakes: Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture into the skillet for each pancake. Flatten slightly and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Final Thoughts
Potato pancakes are the ultimate comfort food chameleon – equally at home on a breakfast plate, brunch buffet, or dinner table. What makes them truly special is their beautiful simplicity: just a few basic ingredients transformed through technique and care into something greater than the sum of its parts. As you explore these recipes, don’t be afraid to make them your own – add your favorite herbs, experiment with different dipping sauces, or try mixing in other vegetables for new flavor dimensions. Whether you’re keeping tradition alive or putting your own spin on this classic, one thing’s certain: a hot, crispy potato pancake fresh from the pan is one of life’s simple, delicious pleasures that never goes out of style.