German Potato Pancakes

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Golden, crispy, and irresistibly savory, German Potato Pancakes (or Kartoffelpuffer) are the kind of comfort food that instantly brings warmth to your plate. With their crunchy edges and tender middle, these pancakes are perfect whether served as a side dish, light meal, or satisfying snack. Rooted in traditional German cooking, they blend simple ingredients in a way that creates a nostalgic flavor and delightful texture.

While they may look like regular hash browns at a glance, the real magic of German Potato Pancakes lies in the batter: a mixture of grated raw potatoes, onion, eggs, and just enough flour to hold it together. Fried until golden brown, they develop a beautifully crisp crust while staying soft on the inside. Whether you prefer them with applesauce, sour cream, or smoked salmon, these pancakes are endlessly versatile.

Why You’ll Love This German Potato Pancakes Recipe

This recipe celebrates the perfect marriage of crunchy and creamy, all thanks to a blend of starchy and waxy potatoes. The subtle sweetness of the onion adds depth, and the egg brings a richness that balances the crispy edges. You’ll love how quickly it all comes together, and that it takes just a few pantry staples. Plus, they’re naturally vegetarian and can be adapted for gluten-free diets too.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They shred easily, release just the right amount of liquid, and hold their shape well once fried. The starch content also helps create those crispy edges that make these pancakes so beloved. If you opt for waxy potatoes like red potatoes, you might need to adjust the flour to ensure the batter binds properly.

Ingredients for the German Potato Pancakes

Potato pancakes start with ingredients you likely already have at home, and each one plays a specific role in taste and texture.

• Potatoes
• Onion
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Oil for frying

Potatoes are the star, and using starchy ones will help achieve that perfect crisp outside and fluffy interior.

Onion adds a soft bite and brings a subtle sweetness that balances the savoriness of the potatoes.

Eggs bind everything together and add richness.

All-purpose flour gives the batter enough structure to hold its shape in the pan without falling apart.

Salt and black pepper enhance flavor and give the pancakes a traditional savory note.

Oil for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil, is key for that golden crisp. Don’t skimp—these pancakes need a generous layer of hot oil to get that signature texture.

How To Make the German Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes and Onion

Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Immediately transfer the grated potatoes to a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Then grate the onion and set it aside.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

Drain the potatoes and squeeze them dry using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel. Removing moisture is essential to crisp pancakes. Combine the potatoes and onion in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Batter

Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper to the potato-onion mix. Stir until fully combined into a thick batter.

Step 4: Fry the Pancakes

Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan and flatten slightly with a spatula. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with applesauce, sour cream, or your favorite topping. Repeat frying in batches as needed.

Serving and Storing German Potato Pancakes

These potato pancakes are best served fresh and hot, straight from the skillet while they’re still crisp. They make a comforting side for roasted meats or a tasty snack with just a dollop of sour cream. This recipe yields about 8 medium pancakes, enough to serve 3 to 4 people as a side dish.

If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet or the oven to crisp up again—microwaving will make them soft. You can also freeze them in a single layer and reheat directly from frozen.

What to Serve With German Potato Pancakes?

Sour Cream and Chives

The tang of sour cream pairs wonderfully with the savory crunch, and fresh chives add brightness.

Applesauce

A classic German pairing that brings a touch of sweetness to balance the rich fried texture.

Smoked Salmon

Top with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of smoked salmon for an elevated brunch dish.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked with garlic and herbs offer a deep, umami-packed side.

Cucumber-Dill Salad

Cool, crisp cucumbers in a light vinaigrette offer the perfect contrast to hot, crispy pancakes.

Poached Eggs

Make it breakfast with a soft egg on top and a drizzle of hollandaise.

German Red Cabbage

A sweet-and-sour braised cabbage complements the hearty potato base beautifully.

Bratwurst

Make a full meal by serving your pancakes with juicy, pan-seared bratwurst and mustard.

Want More Savory Side Ideas?

If these German Potato Pancakes hit the spot, here are a few more savory sides to try next:

• Delicious Old-Fashioned Corn Fritters with a sweet and golden finish.
• Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds for a veggie-forward crunch.
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese if you’re in the mood for cheesy comfort food.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup to round out a hearty meal.
• Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes for a melt-in-your-mouth side.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime. Whether you’re planning a German-themed dinner night or just craving crispy comfort food, this one’s a keeper.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add garlic or try them with cheese? What toppings were your favorite?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting and nostalgic comfort recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next go-to side dish.

Conclusion

German Potato Pancakes are the kind of food that connects generations. Crispy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, they come together with humble ingredients and reward you with big flavor. Once you try them fresh out of the skillet, it’s hard not to crave another batch. Whether you’re serving them as a side, snack, or the star of the meal, these pancakes are sure to bring smiles all around.

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