Name: Crispy Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes to Satisfy Your Cravings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Peeled Potatoes (can substitute with sweet potatoes); 1 tablespoon Sugar (or honey/sugar alternative); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (potato starch works as a great replacement); 200 grams Mozzarella (other cheeses like cheddar can be used); 3 cups Cooking Oil (vegetable or canola oil recommended); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust based on taste preferences)

As I flipped the first Korean Cheese Potato Pancake, the sizzling sound brought an instant sense of comfort and anticipation. This delightful dish is not just another recipe – it’s a warm embrace on a plate. With its crispy exterior and gooey, melted mozzarella center, these pancakes are the ultimate comfort food that everyone in your family will love. Plus, they come together in under 40 minutes with just four simple ingredients, making them an easy choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Feeling adventurous? You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer savory meats or vibrant herbs. So, are you ready to bring a little Korean flair into your kitchen?

Why You’ll Love These Pancakes

Crispy Perfection: These Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes offer an unbeatable crunch on the outside, providing a delightful contrast to the gooey mozzarella center.

Quick and Easy: With just four ingredients, you can whip up these pancakes in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute get-togethers.

Versatile Options: Customize your pancakes with various fillings! Whether you’re adding leftover meats or experimenting with spices like garlic powder, the possibilities are endless.

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Serve them at your next gathering as a unique appetizer, and watch your friends rave about this twist on a classic dish.

Comforting Ingredients: Made from simple, wholesome potatoes, they deliver that nostalgic comfort food feel, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.

Try pairing them with a delicious dipping sauce, or enjoy them alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. If you’re seeking more quick and tasty ideas, check out our Sweet Potato Green or Loaded Potato Taco recipes!

Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes Ingredients

For the Pancakes

Peeled Potatoes – The base for the pancakes; their starchiness provides a perfect structure. You can substitute with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor!
Sugar – Balances the potato flavor and enhances browning during frying; feel free to swap with honey or a sugar alternative if desired.
Cornstarch – Acts as a binding agent to hold your pancakes together and adds that irresistible crispiness; potato starch works as a great replacement.
Mozzarella – This cheese gives a stretchy, melty center that you simply can’t resist; other cheeses like cheddar can be used for a different taste.

For Frying

Cooking Oil – Helps achieve that golden-brown exterior; choose oils with high smoke points, like vegetable or canola oil, to fry to perfection.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the pancakes; adjust this based on your personal taste preferences.

Enjoy crafting these Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes and indulge in a delightful culinary experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Cook Potatoes
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the peeled potato chunks and cook until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes until smooth, taking care to remove any lumps for a pleasantly creamy texture in your Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In the same bowl with your mashed potatoes, add the sugar and cornstarch. Using a spatula or your hands, mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and form a cohesive dough-like mixture. Make sure the sugar and cornstarch are evenly distributed to enhance the flavor and binding of your pancakes.

Step 3: Form Pancakes
Taking about 90 grams of the potato mixture, flatten it into a disc shape in your palm. Place a small piece of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully fold the edges over the cheese, pinching to seal it inside. Flatten the filled mixture gently to about 1 cm thick, ensuring an even shape for even cooking when making your Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes.

Step 4: Fry Pancakes
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test this by adding a small piece of potato—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully place the formed pancakes in the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy. Make sure to maintain enough oil to fully cover the bottom of the pan for a perfect crispy exterior.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once the pancakes are perfectly golden brown, use a slotted spatula to remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping your Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes crispy. Serve them warm, with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a delightful meal or snack.

Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes Variations

Feel free to play around with these delightful pancakes to make them your own!

Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese or tofu to achieve the cheesy interior without dairy.
Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, richer taste that still delivers on texture.
Flavor Infusion: Mix in spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to add a subtle, zesty kick to your pancake mixture.
Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or cilantro into the mixture for added freshness and flavor.
Meaty Option: Add cooked bacon or chopped ham into the filling for a savory upgrade that’s perfect for meat lovers.
Crunchy Add-in: Stir in some finely chopped onions or bell peppers for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy cheese.
Heat Lover’s Choice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for an extra kick that will keep your taste buds tingling.
Dipping Duo: Experiment with different dipping sauces like a soy-sesame sauce or a spicy mayo, making each bite a nuanced experience.

For even more creativity in your cooking, check out our Cranberry Cream Cheese recipe or whip up a batch of our comforting Mac Cheese Ready as a side dish! Enjoy the journey of flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mashing the cooked potatoes and combining them with sugar and cornstarch. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, take about 90 grams of this mixture, fill it with mozzarella, and fry them as directed. For an even quicker option, you can form the pancakes and store them in a single layer between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a hot pan with a splash of oil, and enjoy the same delightful crunch and gooey center, just as delicious as when first made!

Storage Tips for Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes

Room Temperature: After cooking, Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes can be left out for up to 2 hours. Make sure to avoid direct sunlight for best quality.

Fridge: Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to be enjoyed again!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pancakes in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 1 month.

Reheating: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat in an air fryer or skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. Enjoy your tasty Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes just like freshly made!

What to Serve with Crispy Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes

The delicious crunch of these pancakes deserves wonderful companions to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Fresh Cucumber Salad: A bright, crunchy salad adds freshness and contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pancakes. Toss with rice vinegar for a zesty touch.
Kimchi: This fermented vegetable side brings a spicy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory pancakes, enhancing your Korean-inspired dining experience.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: A sweet and tangy dipping sauce can elevate the flavor profile of these pancakes, making every bite a delightful surprise. Ideal for those who enjoy that sweet-savory balance.
Spicy Garlic Dipping Sauce: A mix of soy sauce, minced garlic, and a hint of chili brings an exciting kick to your pancakes, perfect for those craving a bit of heat!
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious green element to your meal while contrasting the crispy texture of the pancakes.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting complement, pairing well with the pancakes for a traditional touch. Its umami richness will round out your meal beautifully.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and subtly sweetened, this drink balances the richness of the cheese-filled pancakes and enhances your dining experience.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a unique dessert experience, try drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce over the leftover pancakes, transforming them into a sweet treat.

Expert Tips for Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes

Oil Enough: Ensure you use ample cooking oil to avoid sticking and achieve that ideal golden-brown crispiness on your pancakes.
Consistent Thickness: Keep your pancakes about 1 cm thick for even cooking; thicker pancakes may not cook through properly, leaving raw centers.
Control Heat: Maintain medium heat when frying; too hot will burn the outside while undercooking the inside.
Perfectly Mashed Potatoes: Make sure your potatoes are lump-free for a smoother pancake texture, which enhances the delightful mouthfeel of the Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; gently reheat to keep them crispy and delicious.

Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes?
For the best results, I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They provide the right texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also substitute with sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist!

How long can I store leftover pancakes?
Cooked Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to reheat them carefully to maintain that delightful crispiness before enjoying them again.

Can I freeze Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in an air fryer or skillet for the best texture!

What should I do if my pancakes are too thick or not cooking properly?
If you notice that your pancakes are too thick, be sure to flatten them to about 1 cm thickness before frying. Thinner pancakes cook more evenly! Additionally, keep your frying heat at a steady medium; if it’s too high, the outside may burn while leaving the inside undercooked.

Are there any dietary considerations for Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes?
Definitely! These pancakes are vegetarian-friendly since they primarily consist of potatoes and cheese. However, if you or your loved ones have lactose intolerance, try using dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether. Just keep in mind that this will alter the texture, but they will still be delicious!

How can I enhance the flavors of my Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes?
Feel free to get creative! You can add herbs like chives or parsley to the potato mixture, or even include cooked meats such as ham or bacon for extra flavor. Pairing with a delicious dipping sauce, like a garlic-lemon sauce or spicy ketchup, can also elevate your featherlight Korean Cheese Potato Pancakes!