Savory Ham & Cheese Potato Croquettes
These Savory Ham & Cheese Potato Croquettes are a delightful twist on traditional potato balls. Made with creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes, they are filled with finely chopped ham and oozy cheese, then rolled in crispy corn flakes for a satisfying crunch. Perfect as an appetizer for a gathering or as a light meal served alongside a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup, these croquettes are sure to please both kids and adults. Ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your lunch or snack game. Enjoy them hot for the best flavor and texture!
72
Servings
50
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Very stiff mashed potatoes
2 cups (prepared from fresh potatoes)
Cooked ham
2 cups (finely chopped)
Cheddar or Swiss cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Mayonnaise
1/3 cup (none)
Egg
1 (beaten)
Prepared mustard
1 teaspoon (none)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
All-purpose flour
2-4 tablespoons (to thicken)
Crushed corn flakes
1 3/4 cups (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the very stiff mashed potatoes, finely chopped ham, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, beaten egg, mustard, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2
Once mixed, gradually add flour a tablespoon at a time until the mixture becomes thick and holds together well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
3
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet.
4
With damp hands, shape the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the crushed corn flakes until they are evenly coated.
5
Place the coated potato balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7
Serve hot as a delicious appetizer or alongside a salad or soup for a light meal.
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
5g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Ham & Cheese Potato Croquettes?
They are a flavorful snack or appetizer made from mashed potatoes, ham, and cheese, coated in corn flakes and baked until crispy.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be an excellent way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
How do I ensure the mashed potatoes are stiff enough?
Use potatoes prepared with minimal liquid; if they are too soft, the recipe suggests adding flour a tablespoon at a time to thicken the mixture.
What type of ham is best for these croquettes?
Any cooked ham works well, as long as it is finely chopped so it distributes evenly throughout the potato mixture.
Which cheese should I use in this recipe?
The recipe recommends using either shredded Cheddar or Swiss cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
Why is mayonnaise included in the ingredients?
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and moisture to the potato mixture, enhancing the overall texture.
Do I need to add eggs to the croquette mixture?
Yes, one beaten egg is used in the mixture to help bind the ingredients together.
What kind of mustard should be used?
Standard prepared mustard is used to add a subtle tanginess to the savory filling.
How much flour should I add to the mixture?
Add between 2 to 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, depending on how much is needed to make the mixture thick enough to hold its shape.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the mixture before shaping?
Yes, refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up, making it easier to handle.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
What size should the potato balls be?
The mixture should be shaped into 1-inch balls using damp hands to prevent sticking.
What provides the crunch on the outside of the croquettes?
The potato balls are rolled in 1 3/4 cups of crushed corn flakes to create a crispy exterior.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
Yes, you should grease the baking sheet to ensure the croquettes do not stick and to help them brown.
How long do the croquettes need to bake?
Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes until they reach a golden brown color.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 72 small croquettes.
How many calories are in one croquette?
Each serving contains approximately 50 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 2.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each croquette?
Each croquette contains 5 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 3 grams of protein in each serving.
Are these croquettes served hot or cold?
They should be served hot for the best flavor and to maintain the crispy texture of the corn flake crust.
What are some good side dishes for this recipe?
They pair perfectly with a fresh garden salad or a warm bowl of soup.
Can I make these for a party?
Absolutely, their small size and high yield make them an ideal appetizer for gatherings.
How should I handle the mixture if it is too sticky?
Use damp hands when shaping the balls to prevent the potato mixture from sticking to your skin.
Are these croquettes fried?
No, these croquettes are a healthier alternative as they are baked in the oven rather than deep-fried.
Can I add pepper to the mixture?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of pepper for seasoning.
Are these suitable for children?
Yes, with their mild ham and cheese flavor and fun crunchy coating, they are very kid-friendly.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as Lunch or Snacks.
Can I use different types of coatings?
While this recipe uses corn flakes for a specific crunch, you could experiment with breadcrumbs if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.