Crispy Potato Pancakes (Golden and Homemade)
Few side dishes are as comforting and satisfying as crispy potato pancakes. These golden, pan-fried discs of shredded potato and onion are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a perfectly seasoned flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from sour cream to applesauce. Whether you know them as latkes, fritters, or just potato patties, they’re a beloved dish in many cultures and a favorite at tables year-round. Made with just a few simple ingredients and fried to golden perfection, crispy potato pancakes are easy to prepare and even easier to love.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Potato Pancakes
These potato pancakes are beautifully golden with a lacy edge and a soft, warm center. They’re simple but so full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking them for a holiday meal, a weekend brunch, or just because you have extra potatoes on hand, this recipe never disappoints. They’re also versatile: serve them sweet or savory, pair them with proteins or salads, or enjoy them on their own with your favorite toppings. The outside crisps up beautifully in a skillet, while the inside stays tender and moist. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic crispy potato pancakes, you’ll need:
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled
1 small yellow onion
2 large eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Oil for frying (vegetable oil, canola, or sunflower)
Sour cream or applesauce for serving (optional)
These ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe super budget-friendly and always accessible. Russet potatoes work best because of their high starch content, which helps the pancakes bind and crisp. The onion adds depth of flavor, while the eggs and flour help everything stick together.
How to Make Crispy Potato Pancakes
Start by peeling the potatoes and the onion. Using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, shred both the potatoes and the onion.
Place the shredded potatoes and onion into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist tightly over the sink and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is essential for crispiness.
Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Stir until fully combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture per pancake into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula to form a patty. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip and cook the other side.
Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining mixture, adding more oil as needed and allowing it to heat between batches.
Serve hot with sour cream, applesauce, or any toppings you like.
Serving Suggestions
These potato pancakes are delicious served hot and fresh, but they’re also great as part of a full meal. Here are some serving ideas:
Serve with sour cream and chopped chives for a savory breakfast
Top with smoked salmon and a dollop of crème fraîche for an elegant appetizer
Enjoy with fried eggs and sautéed spinach for brunch
Serve alongside roasted chicken or sausages for a hearty dinner
Pair with applesauce or cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist
They’re also fantastic on a holiday table, next to brisket, roast beef, or a warm vegetable dish.
Tips for Extra Crispy Potato Pancakes
Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold
Always squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the shredded potatoes
Do not skip the flour and eggs—this helps bind the mixture
Heat the oil fully before frying, but not so hot that the pancakes burn before cooking through
Do not overcrowd the pan—fry in batches for the crispiest results
Drain on paper towels to prevent sogginess
These little tricks help you get that irresistible crispy edge and golden brown color every time.
Variations and Add-Ins
This recipe is easy to customize. Here are some fun ways to change it up:
Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to the mixture
Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter, vibrant twist
Add grated carrots or zucchini (squeeze out extra moisture) for extra veggies
Add grated cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for flavor and crispiness
Include finely chopped cooked bacon or ham in the mix
Use seasoned salt or spice blends like paprika or onion salt for extra punch
With so many options, you can enjoy a different version every time you make them.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Potato pancakes are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but they can also be made ahead and stored. Here’s how:
Refrigerator: Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in a 375°F oven or toaster oven for 10 to 12 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soft
To make ahead, prep the batter (without eggs and flour) and store in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Just stir in the eggs and flour right before frying.
Why Potato Pancakes Are So Loved
Potato pancakes are one of those timeless dishes that show how humble ingredients can create something delicious and special. They’re golden, crispy, filling, and deeply satisfying. People from many cultures have versions of this recipe—Jewish latkes, German kartoffelpuffer, Irish boxty, and more. Whether served at Hanukkah, with schnitzel, or as a breakfast side, they’re always loved. Their simplicity makes them approachable, while their flavor keeps people coming back for more.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These pancakes are perfect for:
Holiday brunches and family breakfasts
Side dishes at dinner parties
After-school snacks
Meal prepping lunchboxes
Vegetarian-friendly potluck additions
Cozy weekend treats with a cup of tea
Their versatility and comfort-food vibe make them welcome at any table.
A Dish That Brings Everyone Together
There’s something so cozy about a warm plate of potato pancakes. The smell of frying potatoes and onions fills the kitchen, and the golden color brings joy even before the first bite. It’s the kind of recipe that encourages people to gather around, take a hot pancake from the plate, and enjoy it while it’s still crispy and warm. It’s nostalgic, yet fresh. Simple, yet full of flavor. It’s a dish that reminds people of home, family, and comfort.
Why You Should Add This Recipe to Your Collection
If you love recipes that are easy, delicious, and made with ingredients you already have, this is one to keep. It’s a great way to use up extra potatoes, feed a group on a budget, or prepare a last-minute side dish. You can double it for gatherings or make a small batch for yourself. It’s also the kind of recipe that you can pass down, customize, and make your own. Once you learn how to make crispy potato pancakes, you’ll come back to this recipe again and again.
Final Thoughts
Crispy potato pancakes are a classic dish that never goes out of style. With their golden, crunchy edges and tender centers, they’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday meals to everyday dinners. They’re simple to make, deeply satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them savory or sweet, as a side dish or a main, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them once, and they’ll become a regular part of your kitchen traditions.