Crispy Mashed Potato Croquettes

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When it comes to transforming leftovers into something special, these Mashed Potato Croquettes take the prize! Made with creamy mashed potatoes mixed with rich cheeses and fresh chives, these croquettes are crispy on the outside and soft and flavorful on the inside. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

Golden and Cheesy Mashed Potato Croquettes

Mashed Potato Croquettes are a delightful way to elevate your everyday mashed potatoes into something unique and delicious. These golden bites are loaded with Parmesan and white cheddar for a cheesy center, while the crispy panko coating gives them an irresistible crunch.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients and is perfect for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes into a dish that stands out. Whether you’re making them for a dinner party or just want to enjoy a tasty snack, these croquettes are sure to please.

They are easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time, making them an excellent option for any occasion. Plus, that crispy golden exterior and creamy interior combination make them absolutely mouthwatering.

Easy to Make, Hard to Resist

No special tools are needed to make these croquettes, and with just a few ingredients, you can turn cold mashed potatoes into something spectacular. Serve them hot, straight from the frying pan, with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear!

This recipe combines texture, flavor, and convenience, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a new way to enjoy mashed potatoes!

Ingredients for Mashed Potato Croquettes

Making these delicious Mashed Potato Croquettes requires only a few ingredients, but they come together to create a truly mouthwatering result. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mashed Potatoes – Cold mashed potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape better when rolled into croquettes. If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’ve been seasoned.
• Eggs – You’ll need six large eggs in total. Two are used in the potato mixture for binding, and the rest are used to coat the croquettes before dredging them in breadcrumbs.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the croquettes that pairs perfectly with the mashed potatoes.
• White Cheddar Cheese – This cheese brings a sharper taste, complementing the Parmesan for a rich and creamy filling.
• Chives – Fresh chopped chives give the croquettes a mild oniony flavor and add a burst of freshness.
• All-Purpose Flour – A small amount of flour helps bind the croquettes, ensuring they hold together while frying.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – These light and crispy breadcrumbs create the perfect golden crust. Panko is lighter than traditional breadcrumbs, making the croquettes extra crunchy.
• Vegetable Oil – Needed for frying. Use enough oil to cover the croquettes about halfway in the skillet.

How to Make Crispy Mashed Potato Croquettes

With a few easy steps, you can turn basic mashed potatoes into irresistible croquettes. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 2 of the eggs, cold mashed potatoes, Parmesan, white cheddar, chives, and flour. Mix everything together until well combined. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, keeping in mind that your mashed potatoes may already have seasoning.
2. Shape the Croquettes: Once the mixture is ready, roll it into 1 ½-inch balls. To help them firm up and hold their shape during frying, chill the rolled croquettes in the refrigerator for about 2 hours.
3. Set Up the Dredging Station: In one bowl, beat the remaining 4 eggs. In another bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs. You’ll dip each croquette into the eggs, followed by a coating of breadcrumbs.
4. Heat the Oil: In a medium skillet, heat vegetable oil until it’s about 2 inches deep. Test the oil by adding a pinch of breadcrumbs—if they bubble immediately, the oil is ready for frying.
5. Fry the Croquettes: Working in batches, fry the croquettes in the hot oil, turning them to ensure they brown evenly. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve: Once fried, drain the croquettes on paper towels. Serve them hot with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for a crunchy, cheesy snack that’s impossible to resist!

How Long to Fry Mashed Potato Croquettes

Frying Mashed Potato Croquettes to golden perfection is quick and simple. Here’s what you need to know about the frying time and temperature to get that ideal crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.

• Frying Temperature: Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough that a pinch of breadcrumbs bubbles and browns quickly when dropped into the skillet.
• Frying Time: Each batch of croquettes should take about 3-4 minutes to fry. Be sure to turn them occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides. The croquettes are ready when they are golden brown and crispy all over.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Croquettes

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the croquettes in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. Crowding the pan can lower the heat, leading to uneven cooking and greasy croquettes.
• Use a thermometer: If you have a kitchen thermometer, check the oil’s temperature to make sure it stays around 350°F. Too hot, and the croquettes will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Drain properly: After frying, transfer the croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.

How to Store Leftover Croquettes

Mashed Potato Croquettes can be made in advance or stored for later, making them a great option for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.

• Refrigerator: Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
• Freezer: To freeze, arrange the croquettes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Cooking Tips for the Best Croquettes

• Make Ahead: Roll and chill the croquettes ahead of time so they’re ready to fry whenever you need them. You can even freeze the uncooked croquettes and fry them directly from the freezer.
• Season to Taste: Remember to taste the mashed potato mixture before rolling the croquettes. Since mashed potatoes are often already seasoned, you may only need a pinch of salt and pepper to finish the dish.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: While sour cream is a classic pairing, these croquettes also taste amazing with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a delicious twist!

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