Description
Delicious and crispy Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes made from leftover mashed potatoes, combining savory diced ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavored with garlic powder and chives. These golden-fried bites are perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 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
- Mix Ingredients: Add mashed potatoes, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, chives, and ½ cup flour to a large bowl. Stir together thoroughly using a wooden spoon until the mixture is well combined.
- Form Croquettes: Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking, then divide the potato mixture into 16 small flat discs, about half an inch thick. Tip: Using a cookie scoop can help create uniform portions.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable or canola oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, and heat over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; if they sizzle immediately, the oil is hot enough.
- Fry Croquettes: Carefully place the croquettes into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow even crisping. Fry them for about 4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, transfer the croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and keep them crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Let the croquettes cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow them to set and avoid burns.
Notes
- If the croquettes aren’t holding together well enough, add a little more flour to the mixture.
- Adjust the amount of oil based on your pan size; the croquettes shouldn’t be completely submerged but require enough oil to crisp evenly on all sides.
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve even heating and better crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 croquettes
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
