Leek and Potato Fritters with Gruyère

Leek and Potato Fritters with Gruyère are an elegant twist on classic potato pancakes. Sweet leeks and nutty Gruyère make them extra special.

Crispy potato fritters with sweet sautéed leeks and nutty Gruyère cheese. Elegant comfort food in fritter form. They're perfect for brunch, holiday appetizers or a cozy dinner side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant flavor
• Crispy and cheesy
• Great for brunch
• Holiday-worthy

Ingredients for Leek and Potato Fritters with Gruyère

• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 large leek, thinly sliced and washed
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère
• 1/3 cup (45 g) flour
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• Oil, for frying
• Crème fraîche or sour cream, for serving

Equipment You’ll Need

• Box grater or food processor with grating disc
• Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth for squeezing
• Large mixing bowl
• Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
• Thin metal spatula
• Paper towel-lined plate

Ingredient Notes

• Leeks: Use the white and light green parts.
• Gruyère: Nutty and melty.
• Thyme: Adds earthy aroma.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because sautéing the leeks first brings out their mellow, sweet onion flavor and removes excess moisture. Combined with crispy grated potatoes and nutty, melty Gruyère, the leeks give these fritters a refined, bistro-style taste. Fresh thyme adds an earthy aroma that ties everything together. The technique is the same as classic potato pancakes, so it's easy to master, but the flavor feels elegant enough for a special brunch, a holiday table or a cozy dinner with friends.

The Secret to Flavorful Potato Fritters

Sautéing the leeks first softens them and brings out their sweetness. Squeezing the potatoes very dry is the key to crispy fritters.

Full measurements and printable instructions are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Leek and Potato Fritters with Gruyère

Step 1

Sauté the leeks in butter 6-8 minutes until soft. Cool.

Step 2

Squeeze the grated potatoes very dry.

Step 3

Mix potatoes, leeks, eggs, Gruyère, thyme, salt and pepper.

Step 4

Stir in the flour.

Step 5

Fry flattened scoops 4 minutes per side until golden.

Step 6

Serve with crème fraîche.

Tips for the Best Results

• Cool leeks before mixing.
• Squeeze potatoes well.
• Fry in batches.

Variations to Try

• Use cheddar.
• Add chives.
• Top with smoked salmon.

What to Serve With It

Serve with crème fraîche, a poached egg or a green salad.

Storage and Reheating

Wash leeks thoroughly; grit hides between the layers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to keep the edges crispy.

Is It Healthy?

Leeks provide vitamins K and A, and potatoes provide potassium. Pan-frying in a little oil keeps them lighter than deep-fried versions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Great for brunch, holiday appetizers and cozy dinners.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Sauté leeks ahead. Cooked fritters reheat well in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean leeks?

Slice, then rinse in a bowl of water to remove grit.

Can I bake them?

Yes, at 425°F for 25 minutes.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, up to 2 months.

Can I use onion instead of leeks?

Yes, sautéed onion works.

What topping is best?

Crème fraîche and chives.

Final Thoughts

Golden, cheesy and elegant, these leek and potato fritters are comfort food with style.

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