Cheesy Potato Pancakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Potato Pancakes

01 - 4 cups mashed potatoes (room temperature)
02 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
05 - 2 1/2 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped
06 - 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
07 - 2 Tbsp light olive oil or canola oil for frying

→ For Serving

08 - Sour cream

→ For Homemade Mashed Potatoes (Optional)

09 - 2 lbs russet potatoes (about 7 medium), peeled and quartered
10 - 1 Tbsp salt (for cooking water)
11 - 4 Tbsp butter

# Instructions:

01 - Fill a 5-quart pot with water and add 1 tablespoon salt. Add the peeled and quartered russet potatoes. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Drain thoroughly and mash with 4 tablespoons butter. Cool to room temperature before using in the recipe. These can be made 1-3 days ahead of time.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, egg, flour, and chopped chives. Use a potato masher to mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture seems too loose to form patties, add more flour one tablespoon at a time.
03 - Take a heaping tablespoon of the potato mixture and form it into a round patty about 1/3-inch thick between your palms. Dredge both sides in bread crumbs, coating evenly, and set aside on a cutting board. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
04 - Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat with enough oil to lightly cover the bottom. Once hot, add the patties in a single layer (don't overcrowd the pan). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. For faster cooking, use two skillets simultaneously.
05 - Transfer the cooked pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on top or on the side.

# Notes:

01 - These potato pancakes work best with mashed potatoes that aren't super creamy. If your mashed potatoes are very moist, you may need extra flour.
02 - Do not use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe.
03 - The recipe yields about 22 pancakes, perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer.