The Crunchiest Crispy Cheesy Potato Croquettes Recipe Ever

Potatoes undergo a magical transformation when mixed with crispy cheesy potato croquettes, turning simple ingredients into a delectable culinary delight.

These golden-brown parcels pack an irresistible crunch that melts in your mouth.

Each bite bursts with creamy potato goodness and sharp cheese notes.

Perfectly seasoned and breaded, these croquettes deliver a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.

The exterior crackles with a delicate, crisp coating while the interior remains soft and smooth.

Crafted with minimal ingredients and simple techniques, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

Prepare to wow everyone at the table with these irresistible potato morsels.

Best Ways to Store & Reheat Potato Croquettes

• Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their crispy texture.
• Wrap individual croquettes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They'll keep well for 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread croquettes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain their crunch.

FAQs

• What ingredients make these potato croquettes different from traditional ones?

These croquettes include crispy bacon bits mixed directly into the potato mixture and feature a hidden cheese cube center, which creates a delicious surprise when you bite into them.

• Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even browning. However, they might not be as crisp as the fried version.

• Is there a way to make these croquettes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the croquettes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. This can actually help them hold their shape better during cooking. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator and coat them right before frying.

Why Crispy Cheesy Potato Croquettes Win Hearts

• These potato croquettes deliver a mind-blowing crunch outside with a creamy, cheesy interior that melts in your mouth, creating an ultimate comfort food experience.
• Crafting these croquettes requires basic kitchen skills, making them perfect for home cooks of all levels who want to impress family and friends with a restaurant-quality appetizer.
• These golden, crispy bites are guaranteed to be the star of any gathering, from casual game nights to elegant dinner parties, ensuring guests will keep coming back for more.

Potato Croquette Ingredient Checklist

Main Ingredients:

• Potatoes: Starchy base that provides the primary texture and flavor for the croquettes.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the potato mixture.
• Milk: Creates a creamy consistency in the mashed potato mixture.

• Cheese Cube: Provides a melty, gooey center in each croquette.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture to the potato mixture.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and provides structure to the croquettes.

• Flour: Creates the first layer of coating for the croquettes.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy, golden exterior when fried.
• Eggs: Used as a binding agent for the breadcrumb coating.
• Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh herb note to the potato mixture.
• Smoked Paprika: Optional ingredient for adding a smoky flavor to the coating.

• Vegetable Oil: Used for deep-frying the croquettes to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Sour Cream, Bacon, Chives: Ingredients for the accompanying dip to complement the croquettes.

Essential Tools for Golden Potato Croquettes

• Large pot: For boiling potatoes evenly and softly.
• Potato masher or mixer: To create smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.
• Shallow plates (3): For setting up breading stations with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
• Small ice cream scoop: Helps create uniform potato ball sizes.
• Frying pot: Deep enough to hold several inches of oil for crispy frying.
• Towel-lined bowl: Drains excess oil from freshly fried croquettes.
• Small mixing bowl: For preparing the dip quickly and easily.
• Spatula or tongs: Helps safely turn and remove croquettes from hot oil.

Potato Croquettes: The Cooking Process Unpacked

Step 1: Boil Potatoes

Place whole potatoes in a large pot.

Cover completely with cold water and add salt.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.

Cook until potatoes become soft enough to pierce easily with a fork, typically around 15 minutes.

Step 2: Crisp Up Bacon

Fry bacon in a skillet until it reaches a crispy texture.

Ensure you cook enough for both the croquettes and potential dip.

Step 3: Create Potato Mixture

Drain potatoes and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

• Butter
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Milk
• Egg

Mash ingredients thoroughly using a potato masher or mixer until smooth.

Fold in crumbled bacon and chopped parsley.

Step 4: Set Up Coating Stations

• First dish: All-purpose flour
• Second dish: Beaten eggs
• Third dish: Breadcrumbs

Optional: Season flour and eggs with additional salt, pepper, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 5: Shape Croquettes

Use an ice cream scoop to portion potato mixture.

Create golf ball-sized portions.

Flatten each ball in your palm, insert a cheese cube in the center, then wrap potato around cheese.

Form into ball or cylinder shapes.

Step 6: Apply Coating

• Flour first
• Egg wash second
• Breadcrumbs last

Ensure complete coverage at each stage.

Place coated croquettes on a plate or tray.

Step 7: Deep Fry Croquettes

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to medium-high temperature.

Fry croquettes in small batches of 4-5.

Rotate continuously for even golden browning.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 8: Whip Up Dipping Sauce

Combine all dip ingredients in a small bowl.

Mix thoroughly.

Serve alongside warm croquettes.

Pro Secrets for Ultra Crispy, Cheesy Potato Bites

• Refrigerate the formed croquettes for an hour before frying to help them maintain their shape and create a crunchier exterior.
• Experiment with different cheese types like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack to add unique taste profiles to your croquettes.
• Use a thermometer to keep oil around 350°F (175°C) for perfect golden-brown croquettes without burning or undercooking.
• Ensure cheese is fully enclosed by potato mixture to stop melting and escaping during frying.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or almond flour for those with wheat sensitivities.

Potato Croquette Variations to Try Next Time

• Vegetarian Potato Croquettes: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or finely chopped spinach for a meat-free version that maintains rich flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Crispy Croquettes: Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes to accommodate wheat-sensitive diners while keeping the crispy exterior.
• Herb-Infused Croquettes: Incorporate different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives instead of parsley to create unique flavor profiles and add aromatic complexity.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Substitute potatoes with riced cauliflower and add extra cheese for binding, creating a lighter version suitable for low-carbohydrate diets.

Serving Ideas for Crispy Potato Croquettes

• Party Platter Perfection: Arrange crispy croquettes on a rustic wooden board with fresh herbs scattered around, creating an eye-catching appetizer centerpiece.
• Dip Delight: Serve alongside the bacon-infused dip in a small ramekin, allowing guests to customize their crispy potato bites with generous dunking.
• Brunch Brilliance: Pair these croquettes with a light mixed green salad and poached eggs for a hearty weekend morning meal that impresses breakfast crowds.
• Family-Style Feast: Present the golden croquettes in a large communal dish, encouraging sharing and creating a warm, interactive dining experience.

Crispy Cheesy Potato Croquettes Recipe

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4.9 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Crispy cheesy potato croquettes bring comfort and elegance to classic potato dishes. Golden-brown exteriors hide creamy, flavorful interiors that delight diners seeking hearty appetizers you’ll savor with joy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 pounds potatoes, cut into cubes (Russet potatoes recommended)
• 4 ounces (113 grams) cheddar cheese, cut in cubes
• 4 ounces (113 grams) provolone cheese, cut in cubes
• 6 slices bacon, chopped

Binding and Coating Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)

Seasoning and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 12 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 14 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 14 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegetable oil for frying

Dip Ingredients:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 14 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 14 teaspoon pepper, or to taste

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Instructions

1. Submerge whole potatoes in cold, salted water, ensuring complete coverage. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Crisp the bacon in a skillet until golden brown and crunchy, reserving some pieces for the accompanying dip.
3. Transfer boiled potatoes to a spacious mixing bowl. Incorporate butter, seasonings, milk, and egg. Mash thoroughly until smooth and creamy, either manually or using an electric mixer. Fold in crispy bacon bits and chopped parsley.
4. Arrange three shallow dishes: one with seasoned flour, another with whisked eggs, and the third filled with breadcrumbs. Optional: enhance flour with smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
5. Utilize an ice cream scoop to portion potato mixture. Flatten each portion, nestle a cheese cube in the center, then carefully encase with potato mixture, forming uniform balls or cylindrical shapes.
6. Meticulously coat each croquette: first dredge in seasoned flour, then dip in egg wash, finally roll in breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage. Refrigerate for up to an hour to firm texture.
7. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep pot. Fry croquettes in small batches, rotating to achieve uniform golden-brown coloration. Transfer to paper towel-lined surface to drain excess oil.
8. Combine dip ingredients in a small bowl, stirring until well integrated. Serve croquettes immediately alongside the prepared dipping sauce.

Notes

• Customize potato texture by using starchy potatoes like Russet for maximum crispiness and easier binding.
• Chill potato mixture before forming croquettes to prevent them from falling apart during coating and frying.
• Experiment with cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
• For gluten-free option, replace wheat flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free panko.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg