There’s something truly joyous about the crunch of a perfectly fried croquette, especially when it reveals a warm, cheesy center. I discovered this Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes recipe one rainy afternoon, searching for ways to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish brings a symphony of flavors and textures to your table, transforming humble leftovers into a delightful treat that even your pickiest eaters will love.
These golden bites are not only a fantastic way to clear out your fridge but also a crowd-pleasing snack for gatherings or cozy dinners. The magic lies in combining creamy potatoes with savory ham and melting cheddar, all while maintaining an effortless, home-cooked feel. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or late-night snack, these croquettes are bound to become a family favorite. Join me as we whip up this irresistibly simple recipe that promises to make your weeknights feel a bit more special!
Why is Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes so irresistible?
Crunchy exterior and melty center: There’s nothing like the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried croquette giving way to a gooey, cheesy filling. Effortless leftovers: Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a gourmet treat with minimal effort. Crowd-pleaser: These golden bites are perfect for parties or easy weeknight dinners. Versatile option: They can be served as a delightful appetizer, side dish, or even a late-night snack. Quick and simple: With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a homemade dish ready in no time. Give these croquettes a try for a delicious and fun meal!
Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up these delightful treats!
For the Croquette Mixture
- Leftover mashed potatoes – great for using up that extra batch from dinner!
- Finely diced ham – adds a savory bite that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – melts beautifully for that gooey, melty center in each croquette.
- Thinly sliced chives – infuses a burst of fresh onion flavor and vibrant color.
- Garlic powder – elevates the flavor profile with a delicious, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour – helps bind the mixture; ensure you reserve a bit for dusting your hands!
For Frying
- Vegetable or canola oil – use for frying to achieve that perfect golden-crisp edges.
Enjoy making these Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes and watch them become a favorite in your household!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add leftover mashed potatoes, finely diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, and ½ cup of flour. Mix well with a wooden spoon until everything is nicely incorporated.
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Shape the croquettes: Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking, then divide the mixture into 16 small portions. Shape each portion into flat disks, approximately half an inch thick.
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Prepare the oil: In a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. To test if it’s ready, sprinkle a few drops of water into the oil; if they sizzle, you’re good to go!
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Fry croquettes: Carefully place the shaped croquettes in the heated oil in batches. Fry them for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
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Cool and serve: Let the croquettes cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This waiting period helps them firm up just a bit more, making them easier to enjoy!
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the croquette mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the leftover mashed potatoes, ham, cheese, chives, garlic powder, and flour in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate. To maintain their delightful texture, ensure that they are well-mixed and sealed tightly. When you’re ready to fry, shape the mixture into disks and heat your oil as instructed. Fry the croquettes until golden, and you’ll enjoy crispy, delicious bites that feel just as fresh as when you made them!
Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes
- Cool Down Leftovers: Make sure your leftover mashed potatoes are completely cooled before mixing. This helps the croquettes hold together better when frying.
- Flour Your Hands: Don’t forget to flour your hands when shaping the disks! This prevents the mixture from sticking, creating perfectly formed croquettes.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer or the water test to check oil temperature. If it’s too cool, the croquettes will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Frying in smaller batches ensures even cooking and that golden crisp everyone loves in a ham and cheese potato croquettes dish.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like herbs or spices to customize your flavors and make these croquettes truly your own!
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes?
Elevate your meal and tantalize your taste buds by pairing these delightful bites with complementary dishes that enhance their flavor.
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Mixed Greens Salad: Crisp greens topped with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich croquettes. The acidity of the dressing beautifully balances the savory flavors.
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Creamy Garlic Dip: A luscious dip that adds an extra layer of flavor. With its garlicky richness, it perfectly complements the cheesy potato centers of the croquettes.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs provides a wholesome and nutty side that rounds out the meal. It’s a delightful textural contrast to the croquettes’ crispy exterior.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their subtle sweetness and crispy edges are a fun twist that pairs wonderfully with the savory ham and cheese. Together, they create a satisfying and colorful plate.
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Roasted Veggies: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection offers a hearty yet healthy contrast. Their caramelized flavors enhance the overall experience of your dinner.
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Chilled Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, this drink cuts through the richness of the croquettes and leaves you feeling invigorated. Perfect for a warm day or a cozy gathering.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm chocolate delight that ends the meal on a sweet note. The contrast of warm and cold textures keeps the experience exciting.
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Crispy Onion Rings: Then, take it up a notch with onion rings for a delightful crunch you can never go wrong with. They’re a classic side that everyone loves, adding extra crunch and flavor to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes
- Room Temperature: These croquettes are best enjoyed fresh. If left out, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated.
- Fridge: Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crisp texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked croquettes by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake frozen croquettes directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and heated through, keeping their delightful crunch!
Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Variations
Make these croquettes even more delightful by customizing them to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a delicious heat that warms your soul.
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Veggie Lovers: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini for a nutritious twist that complements the ham and cheese beautifully. With every bite, you’ll taste the freshness!
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for heat or gouda for a smoky flavor. Each choice adds a unique richness to these crunchy bites!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty treats without worry.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or dill to elevate the flavors. The aroma will fill your kitchen and engage your senses!
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Baked Option: Instead of frying, brush croquettes with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes for a lighter version.
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Meat Variation: Switch the ham for cooked bacon or sausage for a hearty twist that adds an extra layer of flavor and satisfaction.
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Savory Dips: Serve with homemade garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayo to elevate the croquettes to gourmet status. Each dip will bring out new flavor profiles, making every bite an adventure!
Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting leftover mashed potatoes?
When choosing leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’re well-seasoned, creamy, and not too watery. The ideal texture is thick enough to hold shape but still fluffy. Avoid any that have dark spots or a funky smell, as they may not be safe to use!
How should I store leftover Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes?
Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb extra moisture. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh, golden crunch!
Can I freeze uncooked Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked croquettes, shape them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored like this for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, just fry them straight from the freezer!
What if my croquettes are falling apart while frying?
If your croquettes are falling apart, it could be due to a few reasons. Firstly, ensure your mashed potatoes are well-cooled and thick enough. Try adding more flour to the mixture, about a tablespoon at a time, until it holds together better. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan during frying, as this can lower the oil temperature too much.
Are Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes suitable for everyone?
While these delightful bites are family-friendly, they do contain common allergens like dairy and gluten. If you’re accommodating allergies, you can use lactose-free cheese and gluten-free flour. Additionally, keep them out of reach of pets, as some ingredients like onions and garlic could be harmful to them.
Savory Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add leftover mashed potatoes, finely diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, and ½ cup of flour. Mix well with a wooden spoon until everything is nicely incorporated.
- Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking, then divide the mixture into 16 small portions. Shape each portion into flat disks, approximately half an inch thick.
- In a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. To test if it’s ready, sprinkle a few drops of water into the oil; if they sizzle, you’re good to go!
- Carefully place the shaped croquettes in the heated oil in batches. Fry them for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Let the croquettes cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This waiting period helps them firm up just a bit more, making them easier to enjoy!