Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes

### Instructions

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**
Start by boiling the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, and mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and green onions, if using, until the cheese melts into the potatoes. Set the mashed potatoes aside and allow them to cool slightly.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling**
While the potatoes are cooling, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, stir in the paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt to taste. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined.

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs (if using). Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly.

#### **Step 3: Form the Potato Cakes**
Once the mashed potatoes and beef filling have cooled a bit, it’s time to assemble the cakes. Take a small portion of mashed potatoes (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a patty shape in the palm of your hand.

Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of the mashed potato patty, then gently fold the edges of the potatoes around the filling to create a pocket. Carefully flatten the cake to about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and beef filling.

#### **Step 4: Fry the Potato Cakes**
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato cakes to the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.

Once the cakes are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Serve the Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. These cakes pair beautifully with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple dipping sauce. The cheesy beef filling is bound to impress, while the crispy potato exterior adds the perfect crunch.

### Tips for Perfect Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes

– **Make the Mashed Potatoes in Advance**: If you’re short on time, you can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just warm them up slightly before using them for the cakes.
– **Customize the Filling**: You can mix up the beef filling by adding cooked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in some extra nutrition.
– **Make It Healthier**: For a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken in the beef filling. You could also bake the cakes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, to cut down on the oil.
– **Freeze for Later**: These potato cakes freeze wonderfully! After frying, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

### Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes

– **Flavor-packed**: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy beef filling creates a satisfying meal with bold flavors in every bite.
– **Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside**: The crispy exterior of the potato cakes contrasts perfectly with the tender and cheesy filling.
– **Easy to Make**: Despite the multiple steps, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes if you have any.
– **Versatile**: These stuffed potato cakes are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether as a main dish or as a fun appetizer for parties.

### Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and full of savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, these cakes are sure to be a hit. Their combination of creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy, flavorful beef filling makes them a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Give this recipe a try, and soon these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes will become a staple in your kitchen!