Description
Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 eggs (divided)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, diced ham, shredded cheese, 1 egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small balls. Set aside.
3. Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
4. Roll each croquette in flour, dip into the beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy bites!
#PotatoCroquettes #HamAndCheeseDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect croquettes every time. First, ensure your mashed potatoes are completely cool; warm potatoes will make the mixture too sticky and hard to shape. Combine the potato, ham, cheese, one egg, and seasonings in a large bowl, mixing until fully incorporated. For uniform croquettes, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion the mixture. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form a tight, smooth ball or a small log shape. The breading station is key: keep one hand for dry ingredients (flour and breadcrumbs) and one for wet (egg wash) to avoid clumpy fingers. When frying, maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C). Test it by dropping in a small breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and leads to greasy croquettes.
Serving Suggestions
These croquettes are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a hot appetizer with dipping sauces like honey mustard, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a hearty meal, pair them with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. They also make a fantastic side dish alongside fried eggs for a brunch twist or with a bowl of creamy soup for dipping. For a fun party platter, serve them with an assortment of small bowls containing different sauces and garnishes.
How-to Summary
To summarize: 1) Mix cooled mashed potatoes with ham, cheese, egg, and seasonings. 2) Shape the mixture into balls. 3) Bread each ball by coating in flour, dipping in beaten egg, and rolling in breadcrumbs. 4) Fry in hot oil (350°F) until golden brown and crispy. 5) Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying? Yes. Arrange breaded croquettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Can I prepare them ahead of time? Absolutely. You can shape and bread the croquettes, then store them in a single layer on a tray in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them on the tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What can I use instead of ham? Drained canned tuna, cooked shredded chicken, crumbled cooked bacon, or finely chopped vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach are excellent substitutes.
Why did my croquettes fall apart in the oil? This usually happens if the oil isn’t hot enough, the mixture is too wet, or the croquettes weren’t packed firmly enough. Ensure your potatoes are cool and not overly moist, and pack the balls tightly.
Can I use a different cheese? Definitely. Gruyère, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp pepper jack would all work wonderfully for different flavor profiles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm or freshly made mashed potatoes, which creates a sticky, unmanageable mixture.
- Not packing the croquette mixture firmly, leading to breakage during frying.
- Overcrowding the frying pan, which causes the oil temperature to drop and results in oily, soggy croquettes.
- Skipping the flour step in the breading station; the flour helps the egg wash adhere, creating a secure crust.
- Neglecting to let the oil reheat to the proper temperature between batches.
Conclusion
These Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes are the ultimate comfort food, transforming simple leftovers into a crispy, crowd-pleasing dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfect golden exterior with a deliciously soft, cheesy, and savory center. They are perfect for snacks, parties, or a satisfying side dish. Experiment with different fillings and dips to make this versatile recipe your own. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade crispy bites!