Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe

If you’re looking for a comfort food that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, I have to share my absolute favorite Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe with you. These bite-sized delights are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes but trust me, they’re so good you might just make mashed potatoes on purpose! I love this recipe because it’s quick, satisfying, and every time I serve it, my family literally goes crazy for them. Stick around—I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned so your croquettes turn out perfectly every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients are simple but when combined, they create a flavor bomb. I recommend using good-quality ham and sharp cheddar to really make this croquette pop with taste. Also, a touch of chives adds freshness, but you can leave them out if you’re not a fan.

• Leftover mashed potatoes: The star of the show—day-old mashed potatoes work perfectly because they’re drier and hold together better.
• Finely diced ham: Adds smoky, meaty flavor; use whatever ham you have on hand.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully for that ooey-gooey experience.
• Sliced chives: For a mild oniony freshness; optional but highly recommended.
• Garlic powder: A little seasoning punch without overpowering the other flavors.
• All-purpose flour: Binds everything and helps the croquettes hold shape when frying.
• Vegetable or canola oil: For frying; these oils handle high heat without smoking.

Variations

One of the best things about this Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste or pantry contents. I love mixing it up depending on what cheese or herbs I have around.

• Bacon Swap: I tried crispy bacon bits once instead of ham and it added an incredible smoky crunch that my family couldn’t get enough of.
• Cheese Variety: Using mozzarella or Swiss cheese gives a different but equally delicious meltiness; I personally rotate between cheddar and mozzarella.
• Herb Twist: Fresh parsley or thyme can replace chives to add subtle flavor shifts, which I’ve found really brighten the dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for a little heat if you like it spicy.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Ingredients Just Right

Start by combining your mashed potatoes, diced ham, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, chives, and half a cup of flour in a large bowl. Stir them all together with a wooden spoon until evenly mixed. This step is crucial because it ensures each croquette is bursting with flavor in every bite. If you notice the mixture feels too sticky or wet, add a little more flour—trust me, it’s easier to save your hands here than while frying.

Step 2: Form Perfect Croquettes

Lightly flour your hands (this makes shaping so much easier) and divide the mixture into 16 small, flat disks about half an inch thick. I personally love using a cookie scoop here because it helps keep the portions even. Even sizing means your croquettes cook consistently and come out perfectly crispy all around.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden and Crispy

Heat your oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet—cast iron is my favorite here because it retains heat beautifully. To check if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water in: if they sizzle immediately, you’re good to go. Fry the croquettes in batches, flipping once, for about 4 minutes per side until they’re golden and crispy. Don’t crowd the pan—leave space so each croquette has room to crisp up evenly. After frying, transfer them to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Let Them Cool Slightly Before Enjoying

Give the croquettes about 5 minutes to cool before digging in—this helps the cheese set a bit and prevents burns (I learned this the hard way!). Their crispiness remains while the inside stays creamy and melty, making every bite pure joy.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a little extra chopped chives or parsley on top—adds color and fresh flavor. Sometimes, I’ll pair them with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy mustard dip to balance out the richness. It’s the little touches that take these croquettes from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

For a full meal, I like serving these alongside a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to cut through all that cheesy goodness. A simple tomato salsa or a light coleslaw also pairs beautifully for some fresh contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Hosting friends? Arrange the croquettes on a large platter with little toothpicks and small bowls of different dipping sauces—everything from spicy aioli to honey mustard. I’ve also served them as fun appetizers at birthday parties, and they’re always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After frying, let the croquettes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days. I usually pop a paper towel between layers to keep them from getting soggy.

Freezing

I’ve had great luck freezing these before frying. Just form the croquettes, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you want them, fry straight from frozen—just add a minute or two per side during cooking.

Reheating

Leftovers can be reheated in a hot skillet or oven to bring back that crisp exterior. I avoid microwaving because it makes them mushy. A few minutes at 375°F (190°C) in the oven works like a charm!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Cheese Potato Croquettes Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen—it’s comfort food at its best and a clever way to turn simple leftovers into a mouthwatering treat. I hope you’ll try it soon and find it as easy and delicious as I do. Once you make these, I bet they’ll become one of your go-to recipes for a quick snack, appetizer, or even a fun dinner. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you!

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