There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a golden, crispy patty that hides a warm, cheesy, savory surprise inside. These stuffed meat and potato-crusted patties are comfort food at its finest — the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into something memorable. The exterior boasts a beautifully crisp potato crust, while the inside reveals juicy, seasoned meat wrapped around a molten cheese and tender boiled egg center. Whether they’re the main star of a cozy family meal or the show-stealer at a buffet table, these patties have a way of making everyone come back for seconds.

What makes this recipe special is its balance of textures and flavors — from the fluffy, bread-lightened minced meat filling infused with garlic and onion to the buttery, crisp potato layer that fries to perfection. Each bite offers creamy cheese, delicate egg, savory meat, and crispy potato in perfect harmony. They’re fun to make, rewarding to eat, and endlessly adaptable to different flavor profiles or side dishes, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

For the Patties:

• 2 boiled eggs, finely chopped

• 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 300 g (10½ oz) day-old bread, diced

• 150 ml (⅔ cup) warm milk

• 500 g (1 lb) minced meat (beef, pork, or a blend)

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 150 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour (for coating)

For the Potato Coating:

• 500 g (1 lb) starchy potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and grated

• 150 ml (⅔ cup) warm milk

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 1 egg yolk

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Frying:

• Vegetable or olive oil, for shallow frying

Cooking Directions

1. Place the diced bread in a large mixing bowl and pour over the warm milk. Let it soak for about 10 minutes until softened, then squeeze out any excess milk and return the bread to the bowl.

2. Add the minced meat, beaten egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the softened bread. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated into a cohesive meat mixture.

3. Grate the peeled potatoes using a coarse grater and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the warm milk, melted butter, egg yolk, salt, and pepper until combined. Set aside.

4. Divide the meat mixture into 8–10 equal portions. Flatten one portion in your hand, place a little chopped boiled egg and grated cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around the filling to enclose it fully. Shape into a ball, then flatten slightly into a thick patty.

5. Dredge each stuffed patty lightly in all-purpose flour to help them hold their shape and allow the potato coating to stick.

6. Press each floured patty gently into the potato mixture, coating both sides evenly and forming a uniform crust.

7. Place the coated patties on a tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up before frying.

8. Heat a thin layer of oil (about 5 mm/¼ inch) in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches, 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.

9. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then let rest for a couple of minutes before serving hot.

Nutrients (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 390 kcal

• Protein: 20 g

• Carbohydrates: 25 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sodium: 540 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These patties deliver comfort in every bite. The golden, crunchy potato crust contrasts beautifully with the tender, flavorful meat filling, while the melted cheese and soft-boiled egg inside add richness and surprise. They’re hearty, satisfying, and versatile enough to serve for lunch, dinner, or as an impressive snack at gatherings. Best of all, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them anytime.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Stuffed patties with potato crusts have deep roots in Eastern European cuisine, where home cooks made the most of simple, everyday ingredients. Bread-soaked meat, dairy, and potatoes were staples, and combining them into one dish was a clever way to create something hearty and flavorful. This modern version honors that tradition while adding cheese and egg for an indulgent upgrade.

Ingredient Spotlight

Minced meat forms the hearty foundation, while bread soaked in milk lightens the texture. Cheese brings gooey richness, and boiled egg adds creaminess without overpowering. The potato crust — when well-drained and fried — turns beautifully crisp. Butter and milk in the coating help bind the potatoes and enhance the golden finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a lightly oiled skillet for 3–4 minutes per side or in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes to restore the crispness. To freeze, arrange cooked patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to two months and can be reheated straight from frozen in the oven.

Common Variations to Try

Try adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or oregano for a Mediterranean twist, or spice things up with chili flakes or jalapeños. Swap the mozzarella for smoked cheese like provolone, or use gouda for a creamier melt. For a vegetarian take, replace the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese. You could also mix grated zucchini into the potato coating for extra moisture and color.

Pairing Recommendations

These patties are satisfying on their own but pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, tangy pickled vegetables, or cool sour cream. For something refreshing, serve with cucumber-dill yogurt sauce. Drinks-wise, a light beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc will balance the richness perfectly.

Health Benefits

While indulgent, these patties still offer good nutrition. The meat provides protein and iron, the eggs supply healthy fats and vitamins, and potatoes bring potassium and fiber. Cheese adds calcium, and bread offers energy-boosting carbs. Paired with fresh vegetables, they can be part of a balanced, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

These stuffed meat and potato-crusted patties are more than just a recipe — they’re a celebration of texture, flavor, and creativity in the kitchen. Every bite delivers a mix of crispy, creamy, and savory elements that make all the prep worthwhile. They embody rustic comfort while still looking and tasting special enough for a dinner party. Whether for a family feast or a casual weekend treat, they’re sure to win over anyone who tries them — and once you do, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.