Potato pancakes are one of those timeless comfort foods that never go out of style. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of savory flavor, they make the perfect side dish, appetizer, or even a light meal. The version below elevates the classic recipe with a creamy garlic sauce dolloped on top — adding richness and a touch of tang that pairs beautifully with the crunchy potato base.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply craving something golden and irresistible, this easy potato pancake recipe is guaranteed to impress.
🥔 Ingredients for the Potato Pancakes
For the pancakes
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4 medium potatoes, peeled
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1 small onion
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2 large eggs
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3–4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
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2–4 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
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Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the creamy garlic sauce
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons sour cream
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 small garlic clove, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
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Salt & pepper to taste
🔪 Instructions
1. Prepare the potatoes
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Grate the peeled potatoes on the large holes of a grater.
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Grate the onion as well and mix with the potatoes.
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Place the mixture into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible — this is crucial for crispiness.
2. Create the batter
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Transfer the dried potato mixture to a bowl.
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Add eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
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Mix until the batter holds together but is not too wet.
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Fold in chopped green onions if using.
3. Fry the pancakes
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Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per pancake and flatten gently with a spatula.
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Cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until deep golden brown and crisp.
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Transfer to a cooling rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Make the creamy garlic sauce
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In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, lemon juice, and garlic.
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Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Chill for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
5. Serve
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Plate the crispy pancakes while still warm.
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Add a dollop of creamy garlic sauce on top.
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Garnish with extra green onions for freshness.
