The Ultimate Crispy & Cheesy Potato Croquettes (Using Leftover Mashed Potatoes)
Make these golden, crispy potato croquettes using your leftover mashed potatoes. They feature a creamy, cheesy interior and a satisfying crunch, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: About 18 croquettes 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Place the cold mashed potatoes in a large bowl. Mix in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs into three separate shallow dishes.
- Scoop 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 any excess.
- Dip the floured croquette into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
- Roll the croquette thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere.
- Place the coated croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Carefully place 4-5 croquettes into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot.
- Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the croquettes with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the crispy potato croquettes immediately while hot.
Notes
- For the crispiest results, ensure your mashed potatoes are very cold before shaping.
- If you prefer an air fryer method, spray the coated croquettes lightly with cooking spray and air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 Celsius) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- You can add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 croquettes
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0.1
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 65