Crispy Potato Burgers with Cheese and Ham: Easy Pan-Fried Recipe

Potato Burgers are a delicious twist on classic burgers—made without any meat patties. Instead, they feature a golden crust of mashed potatoes, filled with gooey mozzarella and savory ham. These cheesy, crispy burgers are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer. Loved by kids and adults alike, they’re quick to make and totally irresistible.

What Is a Potato Burger?

A Potato Burger is a vegetarian-style burger made from mashed potatoes, eggs, breadcrumbs, and cheese—formed into patties and stuffed with savory fillings like ham and mozzarella. Unlike traditional burgers, these are pan-fried until golden and crispy, giving them a crunchy crust and creamy center. Originating from European home-cooking traditions, this dish combines comfort food vibes with modern-day versatility.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crispy outside, cheesy inside: That pan-fried crust gives way to a melty, flavorful filling.
• Meatless main with a twist: A clever alternative to beef burgers using pantry ingredients.
• Kid-friendly and family-approved: Mild flavors and cheesy goodness make them a hit with all ages.
• Budget-friendly and versatile: No fancy ingredients needed, and you can easily customize the filling.

Cooking Tips

1. Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a fluffier texture.
2. Let the potatoes cool slightly before mixing to avoid a sticky or gummy dough.
3. Add breadcrumbs gradually to control moisture—every batch of potatoes absorbs differently.
4. Seal the patties well to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
5. Cook on medium heat to ensure a crispy crust without burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Potato Burgers Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the burgers, cover them, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What Cheese Works Best For the Filling?

Mozzarella is great for its melt factor, but provolone, gouda, or cheddar also work wonderfully.

Can I Bake Them Instead of Frying?

Yes, place the burgers on a parchment-lined tray, brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Are These Burgers Gluten-Free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and checking the label on your ham.

What Can I Serve With Potato Burgers?

Serve them with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or a side of ketchup, garlic mayo, or tzatziki sauce.

How to Freeze Potato Burgers

Freeze uncooked or cooked potato burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. Store for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, pan-fry over low heat with a lid on, flipping occasionally until hot and golden.

How to Store Potato Burgers

Let the burgers cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet or toaster oven for a few minutes to revive the crisp texture.

How To Make Potato Burgers

Step 1

Step 1

Place the boiled potatoes in a large bowl and mash until smooth. Mix in the egg and grated cheese until fully combined.

Place the boiled potatoes in a large bowl and mash until smooth. Mix in the egg and grated cheese until fully combined.

Step 2

Step 2

Stir in chopped parsley and breadcrumbs. Add more breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet. Form into about 5 equal balls, each weighing around 100g.

Stir in chopped parsley and breadcrumbs. Add more breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet. Form into about 5 equal balls, each weighing around 100g.

Step 3

Step 3

Cut each ball in half and flatten into two discs about 7–8 cm wide.

Cut each ball in half and flatten into two discs about 7–8 cm wide.

Step 4

Step 4

Place ham and mozzarella on one disc, then top with the second disc. Press the edges to seal well.

Place ham and mozzarella on one disc, then top with the second disc. Press the edges to seal well.

Step 5

Step 5

Smooth out the edges to form compact burger patties.

Smooth out the edges to form compact burger patties.

Step 6

Step 6

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each burger for about 10 minutes, flipping until both sides are golden and crispy.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each burger for about 10 minutes, flipping until both sides are golden and crispy.

Step 7

Step 7

Enjoy immediately while the cheese is melty and the crust is perfectly crisp.

Enjoy immediately while the cheese is melty and the crust is perfectly crisp.