Crispy Potato Croquettes with Cheddar

Crispy Potato Croquettes with Cheddar are golden, crunchy on the outside and creamy, cheesy on the inside — a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Originating from French cuisine, croquettes have become a beloved snack and appetizer around the world.

These potato-based delights are made from mashed potatoes blended with sharp cheddar cheese, lightly seasoned, shaped into cylinders or balls, coated with breadcrumbs, and deep-fried or air-fried to perfection.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms humble mashed potatoes into something luxurious and irresistible. The golden crust gives that satisfying crunch, while the gooey cheddar filling melts in your mouth.

It’s a comfort food that works for every occasion — from a cozy family dinner to elegant party appetizers.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s:

• Versatile: Serve as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
• Crowd-pleasing: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be frozen and fried when needed.
• Cheesy and crispy: A perfect flavor balance of creamy potatoes and sharp cheddar with a crisp coating.
• Budget-friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings (about 16–18 croquettes)
• Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: French-inspired / International
• Course: Appetizer | Snack | Side Dish

Ingredients

For the Potato Mixture:

• 3 large potatoes (about 600 g), peeled and boiled
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp milk (optional, for creaminess)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional)

For Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

For Frying:

• Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Boil and mash the potatoes until smooth.
2. Mix with cheddar, butter, milk, and seasonings.
3. Shape into logs or balls.
4. Dredge in flour, dip in egg, and roll in breadcrumbs.
5. Chill for 15 minutes.
6. Fry until golden brown and crisp.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks.
• Boil in salted water until tender (about 12–15 minutes).
• Drain and mash until smooth. Avoid any lumps for best texture.

Step 2: Make the Croquette Mixture

• While still warm, add butter and milk to the mashed potatoes.
• Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
• Mix well until everything is combined and the cheese slightly melts into the mash.
• Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Croquettes

• Take small portions (about 2 tablespoons each).
• Shape into cylinders, ovals, or balls using your hands.
• Place shaped croquettes on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Coat the Croquettes

• Set up three bowls:
  1. Flour
  2. Beaten eggs
  3. Breadcrumbs
• Roll each croquette in flour, dip into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs evenly.
• Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 15–20 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Fry the Croquettes

• Heat oil in a deep frying pan (about 350°F / 175°C).
• Fry in small batches until golden brown on all sides (2–3 minutes per batch).
• Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve hot with dipping sauces like ketchup, garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy mayo.

How to Serve

• Serve as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces.
• Pair as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or burgers.
• Great for parties, kids’ lunchboxes, or even as a quick evening snack.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Cold potatoes are easier to shape — refrigerate the mash for 30 minutes before forming.
• Double coating (egg + breadcrumbs twice) gives extra crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan — fry in batches for even browning.
• To make it lighter, you can air fry or bake them.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheese Burst Croquettes: Add a cube of cheddar inside each croquette for a melty center.
2. Loaded Croquettes: Add chopped cooked bacon or scallions for extra flavor.
3. Spicy Version: Mix in chili flakes or jalapeños for a kick.
4. Vegetarian Mix: Combine mashed peas or corn with potatoes.
5. Baked Version: Brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.

Freezing and Storage

• To Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.
• To Freeze (Before Frying): Freeze coated, uncooked croquettes on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keeps for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat (After Frying): Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes until crisp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Potato masher or ricer
• Mixing bowls
• Deep frying pan or air fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels for draining
• Parchment paper and tray for chilling

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these croquettes gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes like rice flour or cornstarch.

Q2: Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack work great for different flavor profiles.

Q3: Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

Q4: Why did my croquettes fall apart?
They may not have been chilled long enough before frying, or your potato mixture was too wet. Add a little flour or breadcrumbs to bind.

Q5: What sauces go best with potato croquettes?
Try garlic mayo, honey mustard, ketchup, ranch, or spicy sriracha dip.

Conclusion

Crispy Potato Croquettes with Cheddar are the ultimate comfort food — simple yet indulgent, crispy yet creamy. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they never fail to impress.

The crispy crust and cheesy interior create a perfect contrast, making every bite satisfying. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and easy to make ahead — a definite must-have recipe in your kitchen collection!