Introduction
Indulge in the deliciousness of Grilled Ham and Cheese Potato Cakes, a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. These savory potato cakes are filled with ham and gooey cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Grilled Ham and Cheese Potato Cakes offer a creative way to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal. They are easy to make, versatile, and perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, flavorful ham, and melted cheese makes these potato cakes a family favorite.
How to Make Grilled Ham and Cheese Potato Cakes
Ingredients:
For the Potato Cakes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
For the Filling:
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of mozzarella cheese
For Grilling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions:
- Prepare the Potato Cakes:
- Mash the boiled potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried rosemary. Mix well.
- Divide the mixture into 16 portions and shape into flat cakes.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Place a slice of ham and mozzarella cheese on top of one potato cake.
- Cover with another potato cake and press gently to seal the edges.
- Repeat for the remaining potato cakes, ham, and cheese to make 8 sandwiches.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Cook the potato cake sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Add more butter as needed for grilling.
- Serve:
- Let the grilled potato cake sandwiches cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
How to Serve Grilled Ham and Cheese Potato Cakes
Serve the warm and crispy potato cakes with a side salad, pickles, or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy them for lunch or dinner with your favorite beverages.
How to Store Grilled Ham and Cheese Potato Cakes
Store any leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain the crispiness.
Tips to Make Grilled Ham and Cheese Potato Cakes
- Ensure the potato cakes are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during grilling.
- Customize the filling with ingredients like cooked bacon, different cheeses, or sliced vegetables for variety.
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, adding herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sliced grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. Use your favorite plant-based cheese for a meat-free option.
FAQs
- Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use leftover mashed potatoes to make the potato cakes, which can save time.
- Can I bake the potato cakes instead of grilling them?
- Yes, you can bake the assembled potato cakes in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
- How can I prevent the potato cakes from falling apart while grilling?
- Make sure the potato cakes are compact and well-formed before grilling, which helps them hold together better.