Description
Potato Cheese Sticks
Get ready to indulge in a snack that’s crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and absolutely irresistible! Potato cheese sticks are the ultimate comfort food, combining soft potato dough with a melty cheddar cheese center, all coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving something delicious, these cheesy bites are perfect for any occasion.
3 russet potatoes, cooked & cubed
¼ cup bacon, diced
¼ cup green onion, diced
½ cup sour cream
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
1 block cheddar cheese, cut into strips
Flour, egg, ⅔ cup cornstarch, 100 g panko breadcrumbs
1L vegetable oil
Directions:
1. Mash potatoes with bacon, onion, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
2. Wrap cheese in potato mixture.
3. Coat with flour, egg, and panko.
4. Fry at 350°F for 3 mins or bake at 400°F for 15 mins.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 65
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube 3 russet potatoes. Boil until tender, then drain thoroughly. Mash them in a large bowl until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
2. Mix the Filling: To the mashed potatoes, add the diced bacon, green onion, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined into a cohesive dough.
3. Form the Sticks: Take a portion of the potato mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a strip of cheddar cheese in the center. Carefully wrap the potato mixture around the cheese, sealing it completely to form a log or stick shape.
4. Create the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls. Place all-purpose flour in the first. In the second, whisk 2 eggs. In the third, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the ⅔ cup of cornstarch (this mix ensures extra crunch).
5. Bread the Sticks: Roll each potato cheese stick first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly in the panko-cornstarch mixture. Press gently to adhere.
6. Cook: For frying, heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry sticks in batches for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown. For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these potato cheese sticks immediately while hot and gooey. They pair perfectly with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, marinara, sriracha mayo, or a cool sour cream and chive dip. For a full spread, present them alongside other party favorites like wings, sliders, and a fresh vegetable platter.
How-to Summary
Create a smooth mashed potato mix with bacon, onion, and seasonings. Encase cheddar cheese strips in the mixture to form sticks. Bread using a standard flour, egg, and panko-cornstarch coating. Deep fry for 3 minutes or bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble and bread the sticks, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Mozzarella is a great melty alternative, or use pepper jack for a spicy kick. Ensure the cheese is cut into firm strips for easy wrapping.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking? The key is a complete, sealed potato coating around the cheese and maintaining the correct oil temperature (350°F) to set the crust quickly.
Can I air fry these? Yes. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the breaded sticks lightly with oil and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
What’s the purpose of cornstarch in the breadcrumbs? Adding cornstarch to the panko creates a lighter, crispier, and more durable coating that fries up exceptionally crunchy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using potatoes that are too wet, as this will make the dough sticky and hard to handle; drain and mash them well. Do not overfill with cheese, as it can burst during cooking. Ensure your oil is at the precise temperature—if it’s too cool, the sticks will absorb oil and become greasy; if too hot, the outside will burn before the cheese melts.
Conclusion
These potato cheese sticks are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack, delivering a perfect contrast of crispy exterior and molten cheesy center. With simple ingredients and clear steps, they are surprisingly easy to master. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality appetizer that will be the highlight of any gathering. Enjoy the delicious results!