Description
These Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes are a crispy and savory snack or side dish made from leftover mashed potatoes mixed with diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chives. They are lightly coated in flour and fried to golden perfection, creating a deliciously crunchy exterior that hides a creamy, cheesy interior. Perfect for using leftovers and impressing guests with easy-to-make croquettes.
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 dusting hands
Frying
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mashed potatoes, finely diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, sliced chives, and ½ cup of all-purpose flour. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is fully combined and holds together well.
- Form Croquettes: Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking, then divide the potato mixture into 16 small, flat disks about half an inch thick. Using a cookie scoop helps to make even portions. The disks should be firm enough to hold their shape.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable or canola oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet—cast iron is recommended for even heat distribution. Heat the oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water in; if they sizzle, the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Fry Croquettes: Carefully place the croquettes into the hot oil in batches without overcrowding. Fry each side for about 4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping once to ensure even crispiness all around. Use a slotted spatula to turn them gently.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fried croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This step will keep them crispy and less greasy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the croquettes to cool for 5 minutes before serving to enhance their texture and prevent burns. Enjoy them as a snack or a savory side dish!
Notes
- Add a little more flour if the mixture isn’t holding together well enough when forming croquettes.
- Adjust the amount of oil based on your skillet size; the croquettes should not be fully submerged but should have enough oil to crisp all sides.
- Do not crowd the pan while frying to ensure even crisping and cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 croquettes)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
