Crispy Cheesy Potato Croquettes (Baked or Air Fried)
Make these potato croquettes for a crispy appetizer or side dish. They feature a creamy, cheesy interior and a crunchy coating. You can fry, bake, or air fry them.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Total Time: 50 min
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying, Baking, or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or oil for frying/baking/air frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish. Place the beaten eggs in a second shallow dish. Place the Panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and shape it into a small log or ball, about 2 inches long.
- Dredge each croquette first in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, roll thoroughly in the Panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place the coated croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Choose your cooking method:
- For Frying: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the croquettes with cooking spray or brush with oil. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- For Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the croquettes with cooking spray. Cook in a single layer for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
- Using cold mashed potatoes helps the croquettes maintain their shape during coating and cooking.
- These freeze well before the final cooking step. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Consider these an easy alternative to complex meal planning; they pair well with simple weeknight sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 croquettes
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 55