Pan Boxty is a classic Irish potato pancake that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of hearty flavor. Made with a mix of mashed and grated potatoes, this traditional dish is rustic yet satisfying, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy side dish. Served hot and golden, it’s a comforting taste of Irish heritage that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and Filling – Potatoes make this dish wonderfully satisfying.
Crispy and Golden – Perfectly cooked in a skillet for irresistible texture.
Traditional Comfort Food – A timeless recipe with a rich cultural history.
Simple Ingredients – Just a few pantry staples come together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup raw grated potato (squeezed dry)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup low-fat milk (more if needed)
- 1 tbsp light butter or oil, for cooking
Instructions
1. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated potatoes, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beaten egg and just enough milk to create a thick, spoonable batter.
2. Heat the Skillet
Heat a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil and swirl to coat.
3. Cook the Boxty
Spoon about ¼ cup of batter per pancake into the skillet, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches, adding more butter or oil if needed.
4. Serve Hot
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs, a dollop of yogurt, or alongside eggs or smoked salmon.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 170
Protein: 4g
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 2g
Tips for Success
- Drain the Grated Potato – Squeezing out excess water helps achieve that crisp texture.
- Medium Heat is Key – Prevents burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
- Dress it Up – Try topping with chives, sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese.
Why This Recipe Works
By combining mashed and grated potatoes, you get the best of both worlds: soft and creamy inside with a crisp, golden crust. It’s a simple, time-honored recipe that delivers big flavor and satisfying texture with minimal effort.
Pan Boxty is a rustic yet elegant dish that brings the cozy charm of Irish cooking right to your table. Crispy, hearty, and versatile, it’s a recipe that you’ll come back to again and again — whether as a breakfast staple, a brunch favorite, or a comforting side.
Pan Boxty – Crispy, Golden, and Comfortingly Traditional
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes170
kcalA traditional Irish potato pancake made with both mashed and grated potatoes, pan-fried to golden perfection. Crispy outside, tender inside, and simple to make, this comforting dish is perfect for any meal of the day.
Ingredients
1 cup cold mashed potatoes
1 cup raw grated potato (squeezed dry)
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup low-fat milk (more if needed)
1 tbsp light butter or oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated potatoes, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beaten egg and just enough milk to create a thick, spoonable batter. - Heat the Skillet
Heat a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil and swirl to coat. - Cook the Boxty
Spoon about ¼ cup of batter per pancake into the skillet, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches, adding more butter or oil if needed. - Serve Hot
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs, a dollop of yogurt, or alongside eggs or smoked salmon.
Notes
- Drain the Grated Potato – Squeezing out excess water helps achieve that crisp texture.
Medium Heat is Key – Prevents burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
Dress it Up – Try topping with chives, sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese.