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Classic Potato Pancakes

These classic potato pancakes are a timeless vegetarian comfort food, offering a satisfying crispness on the outside and a tender, savoury centre. By using a blend of grated potatoes and onions, this dish achieves a wonderful depth of flavour that is heightened when fried to a perfect golden-brown. They are a versatile addition to any recipe collection, working equally well as a hearty weekend breakfast or a rustic side dish for a family dinner.

Preparing these homemade pancakes is a simple process that relies on pantry staples like eggs, flour, and butter. For the best results, ensure the potato mixture is squeezed as dry as possible before frying to guarantee that signature crunch. Serve them piping hot with a dollop of cool soured cream or fruity apple sauce for a traditional finishing touch that the whole family will enjoy.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Classic Potato Pancakes

  • 1 medium onion, peeled

  • 4 large russet or Idaho potatoes (about 1.6kg), peeled

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons plain flour

  • 6 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • Applesauce and/or soured cream, for serving

How to make Classic Potato Pancakes

Preheat oven to 93°C. Place 2 nonstick baking sheets in oven.

Using box grater or food processor fitted with grating disc, coarsely grate onion and place in colander set in sink. Coarsely grate potatoes, add to colander, and set aside to drain.

In large mixing bowl, lightly beat eggs, then whisk in flour.

Press potatoes and onion to extract as much liquid as possible, then add to egg/flour mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Using wooden spoon or hands, mix well, but do not overwork.

In heavy-bottomed, 12-inch skillet over moderately high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter until hot but not smoking. Drop 4 scant 1/4-cup portions of potato mixture into pan and flatten with spatula to form four 3-inch pancakes.

Fry until bottoms are golden-brown, 4 to 5 minutes, then turn over and fry until golden-brown and crisp, an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain; season immediately with salt and pepper. Keep warm on baking sheets in oven while making remaining pancakes.

Using paper towels, carefully wipe out pan. Add 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter and fry 4 more pancakes. Repeat with remaining batter, wiping out pan and adding 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter before each batch.

Serve pancakes hot with applesauce and/or soured cream.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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