Crispy Old-Fashioned Potato Pancakes

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Crispy Old-Fashioned Potato Pancakes are savory, golden-brown treats with a tender interior, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who love classic comfort foods.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup shortening (Crisco)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup Bisquick baking mix
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups finely shredded, uncooked potatoes

Instructions

  1. Make a batter using only the egg yolk for the moment.
  2. Beat the egg white until it forms a peak.
  3. Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.
  4. Dip shredded potatoes into the batter.
  5. Fry the coated potatoes until golden and crispy.
  6. Serve hot with smothered onions and green peppers.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra crispiness, allow the shredded potatoes to drain for a few minutes before mixing them into the batter. You can substitute the shortening with butter or oil if desired. If you want a more flavorful twist, add some grated onion or garlic powder to the batter. These pancakes are versatile and can be enjoyed as a savory dish or even with a touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy potato pancakes hot, topped with smothered onions and green peppers for a deliciously savory experience. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for a sweet contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a refreshing Swan House Salad or some sautéed vegetables like Spanish Corn.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover potato pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a frying pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until they are crispy again. Alternatively, you can also use an oven set to 375°F to warm them up for about 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crispy Old-Fashioned Potato Pancakes contains roughly 361 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1791mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

361 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.2g 4% DV
Total Fat 29.2g 37% DV
Carbs 23.5g 9% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 0.6g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1791.5mg 78% DV
Potassium 346.1mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 38.8mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 4.1mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 43.6mg 3% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While it's best to use the batter immediately for optimal crispness, you can prepare the egg mixture in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and add the shredded potatoes right before frying. This ensures the pancakes retain their texture when cooked.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet or Idaho potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps achieve a crispy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they may not yield the desired crispiness. For a unique flavor, try mixing in some sweet potatoes!

Can I freeze the pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked potato pancakes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven for a quick meal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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