Crispy Potato Patties

These Crispy Potato Patties are a true comfort food classic with a gourmet twist. The outside is perfectly golden and crispy, while the inside is soft and cheesy, filled with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. Each bite is bursting with flavors from the garlic, onion powder, and fresh parsley, making them an irresistible dish for any meal.

Perfect for family dinners, these potato patties can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or savory snack. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner at home or as a party pleaser, these patties are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, especially the kids!

Directions:

1. Boil the Potatoes:
   Peel and cut the potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and let the potatoes cool slightly.
2. Mash the Potatoes:
   In a large bowl, mash the potatoes using a potato masher or fork until smooth. Avoid over-mashing as you want to keep a bit of texture. Let them cool completely before adding the other ingredients to avoid curdling the egg.
3. Mix in the Filling Ingredients:
   Add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley to the mashed potatoes. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture becomes a thick, moldable dough.
4. Shape the Patties:
   Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Flatten gently into a patty, about 2-3 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dust your hands with flour or more breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, lightly coat each patty in breadcrumbs before frying.
5. Heat the Pan:
   In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. The combination of butter and oil ensures the patties fry to a golden crisp without burning.
6. Fry the Patties:
   Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a spatula to flip them gently so they don’t fall apart.
7. Drain the Patties:
   Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil and butter. Let them cool slightly before serving.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish the crispy potato patties with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm as a side dish, snack, or appetizer. They pair perfectly with sour cream, ketchup, or a dipping sauce of your choice!