Description
Crispy Ham & Cheese Potato Rolls with Creamy Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Potato Rolls:
4 large potatoes
(boiled and mashed)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Chopped parsley
Instructions:
Prepare the Potato Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until a soft dough forms
.
Assemble the Rolls:
Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it into a circle in your palm.
Add a small amount of diced ham and shredded mozzarella cheese to the center
.
Gently wrap the dough around the filling to form a roll. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Coat and Fry:
Roll each potato ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated
.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolls until golden brown and crispy on all sides, then drain on paper towels
.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute
.
Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens
.
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired
.
Serve:
Arrange the crispy potato rolls on a plate and drizzle generously with the creamy cheese sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch
.
These crispy, cheesy potato rolls are packed with flavor and indulgence, perfect for a cozy meal or snack. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Boil & Mash: Peel and quarter the potatoes. Boil until fork-tender, then drain thoroughly and mash until completely smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. Form Dough: In the bowl with the mashed potatoes, add the flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with a fork, then use your hands to knead into a uniform, soft dough.
3. Fill & Shape: Divide dough into 12 equal portions. Flatten one portion into a 3-inch circle on your palm. Place 1 tsp diced ham and 1 tsp shredded mozzarella in the center. Carefully pinch the edges together and roll between your palms to form a smooth, sealed ball.
4. Bread & Fry: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Heat 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry rolls in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning until golden brown on all sides. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels.
5. Prepare Sauce: While rolls fry, melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour to form a paste (roux). Cook for 60 seconds. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly until sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar until melted.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rolls immediately while hot and crispy. They make a fantastic appetizer with the sauce for dipping on the side. For a hearty meal, pair them with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. They also work wonderfully as a unique side dish to grilled chicken or roast pork.
How-to Summary
Create a soft dough from mashed potatoes, flour, and egg. Flatten portions into circles, fill with ham and cheese, and seal into balls. Coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs, then deep-fry until golden and crispy. Simultaneously, prepare a creamy cheese sauce by making a roux with butter and flour, whisking in milk until thick, and melting in cheddar cheese. Serve the hot rolls drizzled with or dipped into the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes. For a lighter version, place breaded rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.
How can I prevent the dough from being sticky? Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-drained and not overly wet. Let them cool before mixing. If the dough remains sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable.
Can I make these ahead of time? You can assemble the uncooked rolls, place them on a tray, and freeze solid. Transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
What are good cheese substitutes? For the filling, try Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack. For the sauce, any good melting cheese like Colby, Pepper Jack, or a Gruyère blend works well.
Why did my sauce turn out lumpy? Lumps usually form if the milk is added too quickly or isn’t cold. Ensure you add the milk gradually while whisking constantly. If lumps occur, strain the sauce through a sieve or blend it with an immersion blender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using watery mashed potatoes, which creates a wet, unworkable dough.
- Overfilling the rolls, causing them to burst open during frying.
- Frying in oil that is too cold, resulting in greasy, soggy rolls.
- Adding all the cheese to the sauce at once while it’s on high heat, which can cause the sauce to break and become grainy.
- Not letting the rolls drain on a rack after frying, which can make the bottom crust soggy.
Conclusion
These Crispy Ham & Cheese Potato Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, combining a crispy exterior with a molten, savory center. The homemade creamy cheese sauce elevates them from a simple snack to a truly special dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can reliably create this impressive and indulgent treat perfect for sharing. Enjoy the delicious payoff of your effort with every crunchy, cheesy bite.