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Ultimate Crispy Potato Croquettes (Using Leftover Mashed Potatoes)

A stack of golden brown, crispy potato croquettes, one cut open revealing a melted cheese center.
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Make crispy, golden potato croquettes with a soft, cheesy center using your leftover mashed potatoes. This recipe includes instructions for both deep frying and air frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (for dredging)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for air frying)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, 1 beaten egg, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Shape the potato mixture into small logs or balls, about 1.5 inches long. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
  3. Set up a standard breading station: one shallow dish with flour, one with the 2 beaten eggs, and one with the panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge each croquette first in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it completely into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
  5. For Deep Frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the croquettes in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  6. For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the breaded croquettes with cooking spray or brush with oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure your mashed potatoes are cold before shaping; this prevents the croquettes from falling apart during breading and cooking.
  • For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped cooked ham or bacon bits to the potato mixture.
  • If you do not have panko, regular fine breadcrumbs work, but panko provides superior crunch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hungryhearld.com/crispy-potato-croquettes-recipe/