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)
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
