Potato cheese sticks

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Texture: The combination of a crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior makes each bite a delight.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this recipe is both accessible and budget-friendly.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer frying or baking, both methods yield delicious results.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Russet potatoes, cooked and cubed
• Diced bacon
• Diced green onions
• Sour cream
• Salt and pepper
• Cheddar cheese, cut into strips
• Flour
• Beaten egg
• Cornstarch
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying) or olive oil (for baking)

Directions

1. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cubed russet potatoes, diced bacon, diced green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
   • Mash the mixture until mostly smooth, leaving some small potato chunks for texture.
2. Prepare the Cheese:
   • Cut the block of cheddar cheese into strips about ¼ inch thick.
3. Form the Potato Balls:
   • Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and flatten it in your palm.
   • Place a strip of cheddar cheese in the center and wrap the potato mixture around it, forming a ball. Ensure the cheese is fully covered.
   • Repeat until all the potato mixture is used.
4. Coat the Potato Balls:
   • Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a mixture of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs.
   • Roll each potato ball in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumb mixture.
5. Cook the Potato Cheese Sticks:
   • For Frying:
     • Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (180°C).
     • Carefully place the coated potato sticks into the hot oil and fry for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
     • Remove and drain on paper towels.
   • For Baking:
     • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
     • Place the coated potato sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
     • Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the exterior is light golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the potato cheese sticks to cool for a few minutes before serving, as they will be very hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Additions: Incorporate herbs like parsley or chives into the potato mixture for added freshness.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the potato mixture for a subtle kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover potato cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which provides a fluffy interior.

Can I make these potato cheese sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the sticks ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Is it possible to freeze the potato cheese sticks?

Yes, after assembling, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda can be used for varying flavors.

How can I make these potato cheese sticks gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate a gluten-free diet.

What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli complement the flavors nicely.

Can I bake them instead of frying to reduce calories?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative that still yields a crispy exterior.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Ensure the cheese is fully encased in the potato mixture and consider chilling the assembled sticks before cooking to help them hold their shape.

What can I serve alongside these potato cheese sticks?

They pair well with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or as part of an appetizer platter.

How can I add extra flavor to the potato mixture?

Incorporate spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to enhance the taste.

Conclusion

Potato cheese sticks are a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a tasty treat at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Potato cheese sticks

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy the perfect snack with these Potato Cheese Sticks! Creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese are encased in a crispy breadcrumb coating, making them an irresistible appetizer or party treat. This easy recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and offers baking and frying options for everyone’s taste.

 

---

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes (cooked and cubed)
• Diced bacon
• Diced green onions
• Sour cream
• Salt and pepper
• Cheddar cheese (cut into strips)
• Flour
• Beaten egg
• Cornstarch
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying) or olive oil (for baking)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Prepare the Potato Mixture
  • In a large bowl, combine cooked potatoes, diced bacon, green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
  • Mash until mostly smooth, leaving small chunks for texture.
• Prepare the Cheese
  • Cut cheddar cheese into ¼-inch thick strips.
• Form the Potato Balls
  • Flatten a spoonful of the potato mixture in your palm.
  • Place a cheese strip in the center, wrap the mixture around, and form into balls.
• Coat the Potato Balls
  • Set up three bowls: flour, beaten egg, and a cornstarch-panko mixture.
  • Roll balls in flour, dip in egg, and coat with panko mixture.
• Cook the Potato Cheese Sticks
  • For Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (180°C). Fry sticks for 3 minutes or until golden. Drain on paper towels.
  • For Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place sticks on parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15 minutes.
• Serve
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Cheese Substitutions: Use mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for variety.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Frying, Baking
• Cuisine: American