Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes

Name: Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made); 0.5 cup diced ham (fully cooked); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 egg (beaten); 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (for coating); 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

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By: Maria
Posted: 01/05/2025

Ham and cheese potato croquettes are a crispy, golden-brown snack or appetizer that’s irresistibly delicious. Made with fluffy mashed potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese, these croquettes are fried to perfection, creating a crunchy outer layer and a creamy, flavorful center. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a tasty side dish, these croquettes are always a hit!

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Ingredients

3 cups (600 g) mashed potatoes
1 cup (150 g) diced ham
1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
Oil, for frying

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, diced ham, shredded cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

Take a small portion of the potato mixture and shape it into a ball or cylinder. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Step 3: Coat the Croquettes

Set up a breading station with three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Coat each croquette in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then roll it in breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Step 4: Fry the Croquettes

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli or spicy ketchup.

Notes

Make-ahead tip: You can shape and bread the croquettes in advance, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to a month.
Baking option: For a healthier version, bake the croquettes at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden brown.
Cheese choice: Use any cheese that melts well, such as gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Ham and cheese potato croquettes are a mouthwatering treat that’s simple to make and guaranteed to please any crowd. With their crispy coating and creamy, cheesy filling, they’re perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to festive gatherings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these tasty bites!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the ham and cheese potato croquettes ahead of time and how should I store them?

Yes, you can shape and bread the croquettes in advance. For short-term storage, refrigerate the shaped and breaded croquettes on a baking sheet for up to 24 hours, covered with plastic wrap. For longer storage, freeze the croquettes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to cook, fry the frozen croquettes directly, adding a minute or two to the frying time.

What cheese can I substitute for cheddar or mozzarella in these potato croquettes?

You can substitute cheddar or mozzarella with other melting cheeses. Gouda, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses work well. For a sharp flavor, try Gruyère; for a smoky flavor, use smoked Gouda. When substituting, use the same amount, about 1 cup (100g) shredded, to maintain the proper texture and flavor balance.

How do I know when the ham and cheese potato croquettes are perfectly cooked?

The croquettes are perfectly cooked when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This typically takes 3-4 minutes per batch when frying. The internal temperature should be hot, and the cheese should be melted and gooey. You can test one croquette by breaking it open to ensure the center is heated through and the cheese is melted before frying the remaining batch.

Can I double or triple this ham and cheese potato croquette recipe?

Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up. When doubling or tripling the recipe, you may need to work in batches to ensure the croquettes cook evenly. Be sure to use a large enough bowl for mixing the potato mixture. You may also need to adjust the frying time slightly, but the cooking time should remain consistent.

What are the nutritional highlights of these ham and cheese potato croquettes?

These croquettes provide carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the ham and cheese, and some calcium from the cheese. Potatoes offer potassium and vitamin C, while ham provides protein and iron. The cheese contributes calcium and fat. Remember that the frying process adds fat, so consider the baking option for a slightly healthier version.

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Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes

This delicious recipe features crispy potato croquettes filled with ham and cheese, making it the perfect appetizer or snack.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2.5 cups mashed potatoes leftover or freshly made
0.5 cup diced ham fully cooked
1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your choice
1 egg beaten
0.5 cup breadcrumbs for coating
1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Preparation Steps

In a bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, ham, and shredded cheese until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
Dip each ball into the beaten egg, and then roll it in breadcrumbs to coat.
Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes until golden brown on all sides.
Drain on paper towels and serve warm.