If you’re looking for a mouthwatering appetizer that’s crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and downright irresistible, look no further than Crispy Mashed Potato Croquettes. These golden bites are a clever and delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, and they’re sure to become your new favorite crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this easy croquette recipe will guide you through making these savory treats from scratch. Packed with creamy potatoes, melted cheese, herbs, and a crispy outer shell, these croquettes are a universal favorite.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What are mashed potato croquettes?
- Ingredients and variations
- Step-by-step instructions
- Tips for crispy results
- Serving ideas
- Make-ahead and freezing options
- Final thoughts
Let’s get frying!
🥔 What Are Mashed Potato Croquettes?
Croquettes are small, cylindrical (or round) rolls made from a variety of fillings, bound together with a thick base like mashed potatoes or béchamel sauce, then coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried or pan-fried until golden.
Mashed Potato Croquettes, specifically, are made using creamy mashed potatoes mixed with flavorful add-ins such as shredded cheese, green onions, herbs, and sometimes meat or vegetables. Once shaped, they’re coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs and then fried to a golden crunch.
This appetizer is popular across many cultures — from French and Spanish cuisines to Middle Eastern and Latin American — but the potato version remains a classic favorite worldwide.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
This basic croquette recipe is highly customizable. Below is a classic version perfect for parties and snacks:
Ingredientes Base:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temp)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 de taza de queso Parmesano rallado
- 1 egg yolk (for richness)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Sal y pimienta negra, a gusto
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For Breading:
- 1/2 taza de harina para todo uso
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
Para Freír:
- Vegetable oil or canola oil for deep or shallow frying
👩🍳 How to Make Crispy Mashed Potato Croquettes
Follow these easy steps for the perfect croquettes:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, egg yolk, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until fully incorporated. The mixture should hold its shape when pressed.
Tip: If your mashed potatoes are too soft, add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs to stiffen the mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Croquettes
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a log or ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and place them on a lined tray.
Shape Ideas:
- Cylindrical (classic)
- Mini round balls (bite-size party snacks)
- Flattened disks (great for skillet frying)
Place the tray in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm up. This step helps the croquettes hold their shape during frying.
Step 3: Bread the Croquettes
Prepare three bowls:
- One with all-purpose flour
- One with beaten eggs
- One with breadcrumbs
Dip each croquette into the flour (shake off excess), then the egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs. Press lightly to ensure they’re well coated.
Pro Tip: Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy finish.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry croquettes in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with a little sea salt while hot for a flavor boost.
Paso 5: Servir y Disfrutar!
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like:
- Alioli de ajo
- Spicy ketchup
- Sour cream and chives
- Sriracha mayo
- Aderezo Ranch
🌟 Recipe Variations and Add-Ins
You can personalize your mashed potato croquettes with ingredients you already have in your fridge. Here are some tasty variations:
Add Protein:
- Shredded Chicken o Leftover Turkey
- Crispy Bacon Bits
- Tuna or Salmon
Make It Veggie-Friendly:
- Grated carrots, zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
- Cooked spinach or kale
- Roasted corn or peas
Spice It Up:
- Jalapeños or red pepper flakes
- Smoked paprika or cumin
- Chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair
🧊 Can You Freeze Mashed Potato Croquettes?
Yes, these croquettes are perfect for freezing. To freeze:
- Shape and bread the croquettes.
- Place them on a tray and freeze until firm.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Fry straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. No need to thaw.
🕒 Make-Ahead Tips for Party Planning
Mashed Potato Croquettes are a dream for advance prep. You can:
- Make the mixture up to 2 days in advance
- Shape and refrigerate the croquettes the night before
- Bread and fry just before serving for ultimate crunch
If you’re hosting, keep them warm in a 250°F oven until serving time.
🧀 Serving Ideas: Beyond the Appetizer
While traditionally served as an appetizer, croquettes can also be part of a meal. Here’s how to incorporate them:
Como un Plato de acompañamiento
Pair with grilled chicken, fish fillets, or steak for a crispy contrast to tender mains.
In a Brunch Platter
Serve alongside scrambled eggs, avocado, and sautéed greens.
As Party Food
Skewer mini croquettes with cherry tomatoes and basil for croquette kabobs!
Topped With a Poached Egg
For a gourmet twist, serve croquettes as a base for poached eggs and hollandaise.
📝 Pro Tips for Perfect Croquettes
- Use Cold Mashed Potatoes:
Warm potatoes make the mixture too soft. Chill first! - Fry at the Right Temperature:
Too hot and the outside burns before the inside heats. Too low and they absorb oil. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. - Breadcrumbs Matter:
Use panko for the crispiest result. Toast them slightly before using for deeper color. - Cheese Choices:
Mix melty cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère with sharp ones like Parmesan for flavor and texture balance.
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you call them mashed potato fritters, croquetteso potato apps, one thing’s for sure — these golden nuggets are absolutely addictive. With a crispy crust and creamy center, they bring comfort and crunch together in one glorious bite.
Estos Crispy Mashed Potato Croquettes are budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and totally customizable. Add them to your collection of go-to homemade party food ideas, and they’ll never fail to impress.
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