Description
These Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes are crispy, golden-fried bites filled with creamy mashed potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a comforting appetizer or a hearty snack, they combine simple ingredients into a delicious treat with a satisfying crunch and cheesy center.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup finely diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour plus more for your hands
For Frying
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mashed potatoes, finely diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, sliced chives, and ½ cup flour. Stir together with a wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined to form a cohesive mixture.
- Shape Croquettes: Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking. Divide the potato mixture into 16 small flat disks, each about half an inch thick. For uniform portions, use a cookie scoop if available.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable or canola oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet, such as cast iron, and heat over medium heat. Test if the oil is hot enough by sprinkling a few drops of water; if they sizzle, the oil is ready for frying.
- Fry Croquettes: Fry the croquettes in batches in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for approximately 4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip them once during cooking to ensure even browning.
- Drain and Cool: Transfer the fried croquettes to a paper towel–lined plate to absorb excess oil. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to let them firm up slightly and avoid burns.
Notes
- If the mixture is too loose and croquettes don’t hold together well, add a little more flour to help bind them.
- Adjust the amount of oil based on your pan size; the croquettes should not be fully submerged but there should be enough oil to crisp all sides evenly.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, for better heat retention and even frying.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croquette (approximate)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
