Loaded Potato and Cheese Stick Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Potato Sticks

Introduction

Potatoes have long been a staple ingredient in households worldwide, serving as a versatile and delicious base for countless recipes. One of the most mouthwatering and indulgent ways to enjoy potatoes is in the form of Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks. This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of loaded potatoes with the crispy delight of cheese sticks, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a side dish. If you love potato sticks recipes, this one will quickly become a favorite.

In this article, we will dive deep into the steps to create the perfect potato sticks filled with cheesy goodness and packed with flavor. Whether you are looking for a fun and easy recipe to impress your guests or a simple comfort food treat, this dish is guaranteed to deliver.

What Are Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks?

Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks combine the best elements of loaded potatoes and cheese sticks into one irresistible bite. They feature mashed potatoes mixed with seasonings and binding agents such as matzo meal, wrapped around a piece of cheese, then coated and fried to golden perfection. The result? A crispy, crunchy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center that oozes deliciousness with every bite.

This recipe is easy to make and perfect for those who love potato cheese dishes. Plus, with the increasing popularity of cooking content, you might find inspiration in a breakfast video showcasing different ways to serve these crispy delights.

Ingredients

To make Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Potato Mixture:

• 3 large russet potatoes (or any starchy variety)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup matzo meal (or breadcrumbs)
• 1 egg

For the Cheese Filling:

• 6-8 mozzarella cheese sticks (cut in half for smaller pieces)
• 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Extra green onions
• Hot sauce
• Ranch dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mash until smooth.
3. Mix the Ingredients: Add shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, matzo meal, and one beaten egg. Mix everything well to create a thick, slightly sticky dough.
4. Chill the Mixture: Let the potato mixture cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm up the mixture for shaping.

Step 2: Assemble the Potato Sticks

1. Cut the Cheese: Take cheese sticks and cut them in half for more manageable portions.
2. Shape the Potato Sticks: Take a small handful of the cooled potato mixture and flatten it into a rectangle. Place a piece of cheese in the center and carefully wrap the potato mixture around it. Shape into a log, ensuring the cheese is completely sealed inside.
3. Repeat: Continue this process until all the mixture and cheese sticks are used up.

Step 3: Coat the Potato Sticks

1. Dredging Stations: Set up three bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs (or crushed potato chips for extra crunch).
2. Coat Each Stick: Roll each potato stick in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
3. Double Coating (Optional): For extra crispiness, dip the coated sticks back into the egg and again in the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully drop a few coated potato sticks into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain and Rest: Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Add Toppings: Serve with sour cream, extra green onions, hot sauce, or ranch dressing.
2. Enjoy Warm: These loaded potato and cheese sticks are best enjoyed hot while the cheese inside is still gooey.

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best because they create a light and fluffy texture.
• Chill the Mixture: This prevents the potato sticks from falling apart while frying.
• Double Coat for Extra Crunch: A second layer of breadcrumbs gives an ultra-crispy exterior.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try using gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss for a unique flavor twist.
• Air Fryer Option: If you want a healthier alternative, air fry the sticks at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Spicy Jalapeño Potato Sticks

• Add diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.

Herb-Infused Potato Cheese Sticks

• Mix fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme into the mashed potatoes.

Loaded Breakfast Potato Sticks

• Serve these potato sticks with scrambled eggs and sausage for a hearty breakfast.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks are the ultimate comfort food, combining the crispy texture of potato sticks with the melty goodness of cheese sticks. Whether you’re making them as a snack, appetizer, or even a breakfast treat, they are bound to be a hit. The addition of matzo meal helps bind everything together, while the fried or air-fried coating ensures a perfect crunch every time.

If you’re looking for more potato sticks recipes, be sure to check out different variations online, or even watch a breakfast video tutorial to see them in action. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these loaded potatoes will leave you wanting more. Happy cooking!