Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes (Latkes) offer a convenient way to enjoy a classic comfort food without the hassle of grating potatoes or frying from scratch. These frozen pancakes are made from shredded potatoes and onions, seasoned to perfection, and ready to crisp up in your skillet, oven, or air fryer. Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah or just craving a hearty side dish, these potato pancakes are a versatile addition to your freezer.
At just $3.99 for a box of eight, they’re an affordable option for those seeking the traditional taste of homemade latkes with half the effort.
Review of Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes
Taste and Texture
Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes deliver on both taste and texture. The shredded potatoes are seasoned with just the right amount of onion and salt, offering a savory, well-balanced flavor. When cooked correctly, the exterior crisps up beautifully, while the interior remains soft and tender.
I found them to be a great substitute for homemade latkes, especially in a pinch. While they’re not quite as crispy as freshly fried from scratch, they come remarkably close when cooked in an air fryer or skillet.
Convenience and Value
These potato pancakes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. They’re pre-formed, frozen, and ready to cook, eliminating the time-consuming steps of peeling, shredding, and frying potatoes. At $3.99 for eight pancakes, they’re reasonably priced for the convenience and quality you get.
Ingredients
Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes are made with a blend of simple, wholesome ingredients:
- Shredded Potatoes: The base of the pancakes, providing a satisfying texture.
- Onions: Add a savory depth of flavor.
- Eggs and Wheat Flour: Act as binders to hold the pancakes together.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
The ingredient list is straightforward, making this a clean and convenient option for enjoying traditional potato pancakes.
How to Cook Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes
Cooking Instructions
- Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the pancakes for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the pancakes on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the pancakes in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with applesauce and sour cream for a traditional take.
- Pair with smoked salmon and dill for a more upscale presentation.
- Use as a side dish with roasted chicken, brisket, or other hearty mains.
Air Fryer Directions for Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Pancakes: Remove the desired number of frozen potato pancakes from the box. No need to thaw them.
- Arrange in the Basket: Place the pancakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the pancakes for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping. Add an extra 1-2 minutes if you prefer them extra crispy.
- Serve: Once golden brown and crispy, carefully remove the pancakes from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd: For the crispiest results, cook in batches if necessary.
- Add Oil for Extra Crispiness: Lightly spritz the pancakes with cooking spray before air frying for an even crunchier finish.
These air fryer instructions ensure your potato pancakes come out crispy, golden, and delicious every time
Recipe Suggestions
- Potato Pancake Breakfast Sandwich
Use two potato pancakes as the "bread" for a breakfast sandwich filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage. - Potato Pancake Tacos
Top the pancakes with shredded beef, salsa, and avocado for a creative twist on tacos. - Potato Pancake Eggs Benedict
Replace the English muffin in eggs Benedict with a crispy potato pancake for a hearty, gluten-free-friendly option.
Creative Uses for Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes
- Base for Appetizers: Cut the cooked pancakes into quarters and top with sour cream, smoked salmon, or caviar for elegant hors d’oeuvres.
- Hash Brown Replacement: Use the pancakes as a substitute for hash browns in breakfast bowls or casseroles.
- Mini Pizzas: Add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese to cooked pancakes and broil until bubbly for a quick snack.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Potato Pancakes
Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product:
No, they contain wheat flour as a binder, so they are not gluten-free.
You can cook them in the oven, skillet, or air fryer.
Yes, leftover potato pancakes can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.
Final Thoughts on Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes
Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes are a fantastic option for anyone craving the classic taste of latkes without the labor-intensive prep. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and balanced flavor, they’re perfect for everything from breakfast to dinner to holiday celebrations.
At $3.99, they offer excellent value and versatility, making them a freezer staple worth having on hand. Whether you enjoy them with applesauce, sour cream, or as part of a creative recipe, Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a beloved comfort food.
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Trader Joe's Potato Pancakes
Product Name: Trader Joe's Potato Pancakes
Product Description: Trader Joe's Potato Pancakes are frozen and available year round.
Price: $3.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Potato Pancakes (Latkes) are easy and ready to go.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Convenient: Pre-formed and ready to cook from frozen.
- Affordable: At $3.99, they’re budget-friendly.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish or base for creative recipes.
- Classic Flavor: Tastes like homemade with minimal effort.
Cons
- Not Gluten-Free: Contains wheat flour.
- Slightly Less Crispy: May not be as crisp as fresh-made latkes without proper cooking methods.
judilyn says
Did you fry or bake these for your photo?
Virtual hugs,
Judie
becomebetty says
Hey Judie! I just baked them up in the toaster oven for the pictures. I did not think they needed to be fried again. Thanks as always for stopping by!
Alek says
Those can be a great swap for sandwich breads. I can see pastrami being sandwiched there with a touch of mustard
becomebetty says
Hey Alek! Now that is one heck of an amazing food combination right there. If only TJs sold pastrami that would lead to some amazing things! Thanks as always for taking the time to stop by and share!
Dag says
I agree these are pretty good for frozen potato pancakes. Not as good as fresh but who is crazy enough to get up on a Saturday or Sunday morning and grate pounds and pounds of potatoes?! I love these topped with cheese. One time I got some of Trader Joe's pre-cooked bacon and then melted cheese on top. Another time when I was still with my last boyfriend I made pepper sausage gravy and poured that on top. Then to make it a true heart attack on a plate I melted some New York extra-sharp cheddar on the whole shebang. So incredibly awesom
becomebetty says
Hey Dag! OMG that sounds so awesome. And yes, heart attack on a plate, but those tend to be the best meals! Thanks so much for sharing the delicious sounding combination!
lindatd@cox.net says
Unfortunately TJs has discontinued the potato pancakes. I thought they were the best frozen latke available anywhere and I wish they’d bring them back.
sandy says
Hi. This is third review I've read about Trader Joe's potato latkes and none of them showed the directions. I need to time my dinner tonight and let everyone know when to show up. For next time, directions would have been very helpful.
becomebetty says
The directions are posted. See the nutritional information picture? Its right below the image. It's a little hard to read as the text is white on light blue. But it is there.