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Crispy German Potato Cake

crispy german potato cake - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, golden potato cakes with a tender, savory inside, perfect for cozy nights and comforting meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds yellow potatoes (about 900g), peeled and grated (Gold or Yukon Gold recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying (can substitute with clarified butter or neutral oil)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Grate the potatoes and onion using the coarse side of a box grater or food processor. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with the beaten eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir until well incorporated. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too wet or dry.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and foam but not brown.
  4. Scoop about 1/3 cup (80 ml) of potato mixture per cake and gently press into a round patty about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick. Avoid packing too tightly.
  5. Carefully place the patties in the hot buttered skillet, leaving space between each. Fry for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 4 minutes. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
  7. Transfer cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess butter. Keep warm in a low oven (about 200°F/90°C) while frying the rest.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from grated potatoes to ensure crispiness. Use medium heat to avoid burning and soggy cakes. Press cakes lightly to avoid density or falling apart. Butter can be substituted with avocado or coconut oil for dairy-free option. For extra golden crust, add a teaspoon of neutral oil with butter. Do not overcrowd the pan. Adjust seasoning last minute by tasting raw batter with a tiny pinch.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato cake, German potato cake, crispy potato cakes, comfort food, easy potato recipe, cozy meals, fried potato cakes