This Crispy Korean Potato Pancakes comes together in about 30 minutes and uses a simple frying method for a quick and easy weeknight meal that your family will love!
Ingredient Breakdown
Making these pancakes is super straightforward, and you’ll love the minimal ingredients needed. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium Russet Potatoes (Grated): This is where the magic starts. The Russet potatoes provide a great texture that’s hard to beat.
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch: This helps bind everything together, giving the pancakes their crispy exterior. You can swap it out with a gluten-free substitute if needed!
- 1 teaspoon Salt: I recommend a couple pinches, after all, we want everything to be seasoned beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adjust according to your taste. A little kick goes a long way!
- 1/2 cup Green Onions (Finely chopped): These add freshness and a burst of flavor.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Grated): This is optional but highly recommended. You can also swap it for cheddar or pecorino if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons Oil: Opt for a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil. This ensures perfect crisping.
Let’s Get Cooking!
Prepare Your Potatoes: Start by grating your Russet potatoes, use a box grater or food processor. Once done, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. Trust me, this step is key for crispy pancakes!
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, green onions, and mozzarella cheese. Mix it all together until well combined, the smell should already be making your mouth water.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat your oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that when you drop a little test mixture in, it sizzles immediately.
Cook the Pancakes: Take a scoop of your potato mixture and flatten it gently onto the skillet. Keep it about 1/2 inch thick for the perfect pancake. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip with care, this is the moment of truth!
Drain: As you finish cooking each pancake, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve Hot: Serve your pancakes hot, possibly with a side of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. I can’t tell you how perfect they taste when they’re fresh out of the pan!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my crispy air fryer smashed potatoes !
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’re not spending hours in the kitchen, just cooking some incredible food!
Crowd-Pleaser
The whole family will love these pancakes. With their crispy exterior and soft inside, they’re sure to disappear fast! Kids are especially drawn to anything resembling a fritter, I can tell you that much.
Comfort Food
Loaded with tons of flavor, these pancakes are the definition of comfort food. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and just plain delicious.
Customizable
You can easily switch out ingredients based on what you have at home. Don’t have mozzarella? Go for cheddar! Want more greens? Toss in some spinach or other finely chopped veggies!
Make-Ahead Friendly
If you want to take it easy during the week, consider making a big batch on the weekend. They keep well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, just pop them in the toaster for a quick warm-up!
Serving and Storage Tips
How to Serve This Dish
I love serving these crispy Korean potato pancakes with a delicious dipping sauce. Soy sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy mayo can really take them to the next level! They’re great alongside a fresh salad too.
Storage
These pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just ensure they cool to room temperature before sealing them up, no one likes warm soggy pancakes!
Reheating Instructions
The best method to reheat them? Use your toaster oven or air fryer! Just a few minutes until they’re hot and crispy again.
Freezer Friendly
Yep, you can totally freeze these. Just make sure they’re completely cooled, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer bag, and they’ll be good for a couple of months. Reheat from frozen, and you’ll have instant deliciousness whenever you need it!
So there you have it! Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just craving something cozy, these crispy Korean potato pancakes are the answer. Happy cooking, and remember to make it your own!
Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!
