Recipe

Potato Croquettes with Cheese are a classic comfort food that works equally well as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with melted cheese woven throughout — this is the kind of dish that disappears fast once it hits the table.

This version focuses on texture and efficiency. Instead of boiling and mashing potatoes, the potatoes and cheese are grated into coarse shreds, then mixed and cooked. The result is a lighter interior structure and a crispier exterior, with less prep time.

Why Potato Croquettes Are So Popular

Potato croquettes are a staple in many European and American kitchens for a few simple reasons.

First, the ingredients are affordable and easy to find. Potatoes, eggs, and cheese are common pantry staples.

Second, they are extremely versatile. You can fry them for maximum crispiness or bake them for a lighter version.

Finally, they are perfect for make-ahead cooking. The mixture can be prepared in advance and cooked just before serving.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

- 4 medium potatoes

- 100g cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)

- 1 egg

- Breadcrumbs, as needed

- Salt, to taste

- Dried herbs or black pepper, optional

Why Grating Works Better Than Mashing

Traditional croquette recipes often start with boiled, mashed potatoes. While effective, that method can be time-consuming and may result in a dense or overly moist texture.

Grating raw potatoes and cheese using a coarse blade creates long, even strands that bind naturally during cooking. The cheese melts evenly, while the potato shreds form a light but stable structure.

For home cooks who frequently prepare potatoes, vegetables, or hard cheese, a rotary cheese grater can significantly speed up prep and help maintain consistent texture without much effort.

How to Make Potato Cheese Croquettes

Step 1: Use a coarse grater to shred the potatoes and cheese. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the egg, salt, and herbs. Mix until the ingredients come together and can hold their shape.

Step 3: Shape the mixture into small balls, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Fry in hot oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Alternatively, bake at 200°C (400°F) until crisp.

Step 5: Serve hot with garlic aioli, ketchup, or a yogurt-based dipping sauce.

Tips for Extra Crispiness

Excess moisture is the main enemy of crispy croquettes. If the grated potatoes release a lot of liquid, gently pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing.

Using coarse breadcrumbs also helps create a thicker, crunchier outer layer.

Serving Ideas and Variations

Potato cheese croquettes pair well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.

You can customize the flavor by adding cooked bacon bits, finely chopped onions, or experimenting with different cheeses.

For a deeper look at how different cheeses melt and behave during cooking, Serious Eats offers an excellent breakdown of cheese science.

Final Thoughts

Potato Croquettes with Cheese prove that great comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, smart prep, and the right texture, you can create a satisfying dish in just 25 minutes.

If you enjoy practical, technique-focused recipes like this one, explore our other guides on shredding vegetables and preparing cheese efficiently at home.