Here is a detailed, step-by-step Cheesy Ham & Potato Croquettes recipe — crispy on the outside and creamy, cheesy inside.

Cheesy Ham & Potato Croquettes

Yield

12–16 croquettes

Prep Time

25 minutes

Chill Time

30–60 minutes

Cook Time

4–5 minutes (per batch if frying)

Ingredients

For the Filling

2 cups mashed potatoes (cold and firm)
1 cup finely chopped cooked ham
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

For Breading

½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crunch)

For Frying

Vegetable oil (enough for 2–3 inches in pan)

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Shallow bowls for breading
Deep skillet or saucepan
Slotted spoon
Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:
- Mashed potatoes
- Chopped ham
- Shredded cheese
- Parmesan
- Parsley
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
Mix until evenly combined.
Taste and adjust salt if needed.

The mixture should be thick and moldable.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture.
Shape into small cylinders or oval logs.
Place on a tray.
Chill in refrigerator for 30–60 minutes.

Chilling helps them hold shape during frying.

Step 3: Prepare Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls:

Flour in first bowl.
Beaten eggs in second bowl.
Breadcrumbs in third bowl.

Step 4: Bread the Croquettes

Roll each croquette in flour.
Dip into beaten egg.
Coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
Place back on tray.

For extra crispiness, repeat egg and breadcrumb coating.

Step 5: Fry

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry croquettes in batches (do not overcrowd).
Cook 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Remove with slotted spoon.
Drain on paper towels.

Baked Version (Healthier Option)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place breaded croquettes on lined baking sheet.
Spray lightly with cooking spray.
Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Broil 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.

Air Fryer Version

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray croquettes lightly with oil.
Cook 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

Garlic aioli
Honey mustard
Marinara sauce
Spicy mayo

Tips for Success

Use cold mashed potatoes to prevent softness.
Finely chop ham for better binding.
If mixture is too soft, add 1–2 tablespoons breadcrumbs to filling.
If cracking while frying, chill longer.

Storage

Refrigerate up to 3 days.
Freeze uncooked breaded croquettes up to 2 months.
Fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes