Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes Recipe
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Crispy golden potato pancakes made from grated potatoes and onion, pan-fried until crunchy. Served with applesauce or sour cream.
About This Recipe
"Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes" is a Dinner recipe that brings potatoes, peeled, onion, eggs, flour and salt together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 35 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 4 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled
- 1 onion
- 2 eggs
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp salt
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- 1
Grate potatoes and onion finely. Squeeze out excess moisture in a kitchen towel.
- 2
Mix with eggs, flour, and salt.
- 3
Heat oil in a pan. Drop spoonfuls of batter and flatten into thin rounds.
- 4
Fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- 5
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with applesauce or sour cream.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Potatoes, peeled is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 35 minutes. It serves 4 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes?
Store leftover Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Kartoffelpuffer — German Potato Pancakes in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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