Go Back
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, satisfying embrace of potato cakes. Enter the Crispy Pepper Jack Potato Cakes, a delightful fusion of creamy potatoes and zesty cheese that elevates this traditional dish into something truly exceptional. These cakes boast a golden, crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, cheesy interior, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you're serving them as appetizers at a gathering or enjoying them as a side dish during family dinners, these potato cakes are sure to impress with their bold flavors and unique textures.

Crispy Pepper Jack Potato Cakes

Discover the irresistible Crispy Pepper Jack Potato Cakes, a comforting dish that combines creamy Yukon Gold potatoes with zesty Pepper Jack cheese. Each cake features a crunchy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, making them perfect as appetizers or sides. Easy to prepare and celebrating bold flavors, these potato cakes are versatile for any occasion. With simple techniques and fresh ingredients, you’ll create a delightful culinary experience that impresses everyone.

Ingredients
  

2 cups grated Yukon Gold potatoes (approximately 3 medium potatoes, peeled)

1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

¼ cup finely chopped green onions

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes. Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the potatoes into long strands. To remove excess moisture (which helps achieve a crispy texture), place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel, twist the towel tightly, and squeeze out as much liquid as you can.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained grated potatoes, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, flour, beaten eggs, green onions, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, optional cayenne pepper, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

      Form the Cakes: Take a portion of the savory mixture (approximately ¼ cup) and shape it into a patty about ½ inch thick. Repeat this process until you've used up the entire mixture, yielding around 10-12 potato cakes.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about ¼ inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and reaches about 350°F (180°C).

          Fry the Cakes: Carefully place the potato cakes in the hot oil, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry the cakes for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them gently.

            Drain the Cakes: After frying, transfer the cooked cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

              Serve Warm: Enjoy your Crispy Pepper Jack Potato Cakes immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. Serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce for an added kick!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, arrange the potato cakes on a colorful platter and garnish with additional chopped cilantro or sliced green onions. Serve with a small bowl of your preferred dipping sauce in the center.