Pan-Fried Boxty Pancakes with Scallions and Sour Cream

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy, golden potato pancakes made with a simple batter and topped with fresh scallions and tangy sour cream for a comforting side dish. This irish-inspired vegetarian ready in about 35 minutes layers russet potatoes, all-purpose flour, scallions into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 250 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Irish cuisine 250 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 2 large peeled and grated russet potatoes, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup chopped scallions, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Step 2: Add 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter and 1/4 cup sour cream, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Step 3: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Drop the batter by 1/4-cup portions into the skillet, flattening each into a 3-inch pancake.
  4. Step 4: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Fried Boxty Pancakes with Scallions and Sour Cream take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Pan-Fried Boxty Pancakes with Scallions and Sour Cream?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Fried Boxty Pancakes with Scallions and Sour Cream?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Fried Boxty Pancakes with Scallions and Sour Cream for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Fried Boxty Pancakes with Scallions and Sour Cream?

Irish vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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