There’s something irresistibly comforting about golden, crispy potato patties oozing with melted cheese and savory ham in every bite. This recipe takes the humble potato and turns it into a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Perfect as a main meal, snack, or even a party appetizer, these patties deliver that ultimate comfort food feeling with just a handful of simple ingredients. Each bite offers a creamy mashed potato base with a surprise cheesy center that stretches beautifully, paired with the smoky saltiness of ham — truly an indulgent treat worth making again and again.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes (about 800 g), peeled and boiled

• Salt, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 egg

• 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or dill (optional)

• 100 g cooked ham, diced

• 100 g mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging)

• 2 beaten eggs (for coating)

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Potato Base:
   Start by boiling your peeled potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain them well, then mash them while still warm. Add butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, mixing until smooth and creamy. Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly before adding the egg and breadcrumbs. Mix until the mixture holds together but remains soft.

2. Shape the Patties:
   Take a small handful of the potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a few cubes of ham and cheese in the center, then carefully fold the potato mixture around it, shaping it into a round or oval patty. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

3. Coat the Patties:
   Roll each patty lightly in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. This triple coating helps create a crisp, golden crust when fried.

4. Fry to Perfection:
   Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan — this ensures even frying and perfect browning.

5. Drain and Serve:
   Once fried, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and watch the cheese melt beautifully as you cut into them.

Nutrients

• Calories: 280 per serving

• Protein: 11 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fat: 12 g

• Calcium: 15% DV

• Iron: 8% DV

• Fiber: 3 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll absolutely fall in love with these potato patties because they’re everything you crave in one bite — crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, and packed with satisfying flavor. They’re versatile enough for any occasion — from cozy family dinners to a show-stopping brunch side. Even picky eaters won’t resist these golden delights! The balance of creamy potato, salty ham, and gooey cheese makes them feel both familiar and indulgent. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and made from simple ingredients you probably already have at home.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Potato patties like these have deep roots in European comfort cuisine. From German Kartoffelplätzchen to Eastern European zrazy, many cultures have created variations using mashed potatoes as a base filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese. This version blends that Old-World inspiration with a modern twist — adding ham and melty cheese for a more luxurious texture. It’s the perfect example of how timeless recipes evolve and adapt across generations and regions, always coming back to the simple pleasure of comfort food done right.

Ingredient Spotlight

The heart of this dish is the potato — the ultimate comfort ingredient that gives a soft, fluffy texture to the patties. Combined with cheese, you get that irresistible creamy pull that makes every bite satisfying. The ham introduces a savory, smoky contrast that pairs beautifully with the mildness of the potato. Breadcrumbs give the patties a crisp shell that’s key to the texture, while a hint of nutmeg or herbs lifts the flavor to something truly special. Every ingredient contributes its own touch — together, they create harmony on your plate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with these!), simply let the patties cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the outer coating soggy. You can also freeze the uncooked patties — just arrange them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, fry them directly from frozen; no need to thaw.

Common Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can swap the ham for bacon, turkey, or even smoked salmon for a fancier version. Vegetarian? Skip the meat and load them with spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled bell peppers instead. For an extra kick, add chili flakes or smoked paprika to the potato mixture. You can also try different cheeses — Swiss, Gouda, or Parmesan will all give a new flavor dimension. Some even love adding a spoonful of cream cheese inside for an ultra-creamy surprise center.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve these patties with a cool garlic yogurt dip, sour cream, or spicy ketchup for a delicious contrast. They also go beautifully with a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or a side of roasted vegetables. If you’re serving them for brunch, pair them with poached eggs and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken, sausages, or a light soup like tomato or mushroom.

Health Benefits

Despite their indulgent taste, these patties have surprising nutritional value. Potatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while the eggs and cheese provide a good source of protein and calcium. Ham adds a boost of iron and essential amino acids. If you bake instead of fry, you can make this dish lighter while still retaining all its deliciousness. Opting for whole-grain breadcrumbs or using Greek yogurt dip instead of mayo-based sauces can also increase the nutritional profile.

Conclusion

Potato Patties with Ham and Cheese Filling are the definition of simple comfort done right — crispy, melty, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers pure satisfaction in every bite. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something that feels truly gourmet. So next time you’re looking for a meal that’s both nostalgic and exciting, make these golden patties — and watch them disappear before they even cool down!