If you’re craving a snack that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside with gooey, cheesy goodness inside, then the Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden sticks combine creamy mashed potatoes, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar, all wrapped in a crunchy Parmesan-infused crust that delivers an explosion of flavor and texture in every bite. They’re perfect for sharing, snacking, or even serving as a fun appetizer that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the comforting fluffiness of russet potatoes to the savory punch of bacon and the crispy, cheesy crust, these simple staples come together beautifully to make something truly special.
- Russet potatoes: These provide a fluffy base with the perfect starchy texture for molding.
- Bacon, diced: Adds smoky saltiness that elevates the dish.
- Sour cream: Brings creaminess and a subtle tang to the potato mixture.
- Green onion, diced: Offers fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
- Cheddar cheese block: Cut into strips for that melty, gooey center.
- Cornstarch: Helps the crust cling tightly and stay crispy.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Provides the signature crunchy coating.
- Flour: Begins the breading process by giving a dry base layer.
- Egg, beaten: Acts as the adhesive for the crust layers.
- Vegetable oil (or canola/peanut oil): For deep frying until golden perfection.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
Start by combining your cooked, cubed russet potatoes with the diced bacon, green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until mostly smooth, but don’t worry about eliminating every chunk; those little bits give the mixture delightful texture that shines through in the finished sticks.
Step 2: Cut the Cheese
Next, take your cheddar cheese block and slice it into strips about a quarter-inch thick. These cheese sticks will be the molten core of your potato bites, so keep them uniform to ensure even cooking and melting.
Step 3: Shape the Potato Cheese Sticks
Spoon a generous amount of the mashed potato mixture into your palm, flatten it out, then nestle one piece of cheddar cheese in the center. Gently wrap the potato mixture around the cheese, sealing the edges so the cheese won’t leak during frying. Repeat this with the rest of your mixture—it’s a little hands-on fun that makes the result worth it.
Step 4: Coat the Potato Sticks
Set up your breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a crispy blend of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs mixed with finely grated Parmesan for that flavorful crust. Roll each potato cheese stick first in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. This triple-layer crust is what creates that signature Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe crunch.
Step 5: Fry the Potato Cheese Sticks
Heat your oil to 350°F (180°C) and carefully fry the sticks in batches. Frying them for about 3 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown will make the crust perfectly crisp while melting that cheddar inside. Remove the sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. A light sprinkle of salt while they’re still hot enhances the flavor tremendously.
Step 6: Optional – Bake Instead of Frying
If you prefer a lighter version or don’t want to deal with frying, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for around 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp. It’s a fantastic alternative that still delivers on crunch and flavor.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top to add a burst of color and fresh aroma. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan just before serving makes the dish pop with extra cheesy appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve your potato cheese sticks with tangy dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or classic ketchup to balance the richness. Pairing them with a crisp green salad or fresh-cut veggies provides a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this snack into an impressive party platter by arranging the sticks upright in a mason jar or vase, surrounded by small bowls of various dips. Add colorful toothpicks for easy grabbing and a playful presentation that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover potato cheese sticks in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the un-fried, breaded sticks on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can fry or bake them straight from frozen whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sticks in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it will make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese besides cheddar?
Absolutely! While cheddar melts beautifully and gives a rich flavor, mozzarella or gouda are great alternatives if you want a milder or creamier cheese center.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
Use a kitchen thermometer to check for 350°F (180°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of bread or batter into the oil; it should bubble and brown quickly but not burn.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Cornstarch is already gluten-free, so it fits perfectly here to keep the coating crispy.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
You can swap out the cheddar for a vegan cheese and replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative. Use flax egg or another binding agent instead of the egg and select vegan-friendly breadcrumbs to keep it vegan.
What’s the best way to keep the sticks from falling apart?
Fully enclose the cheese by wrapping the potato mixture completely around it and pressing gently but firmly. Also, the triple coating of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs helps hold everything together while frying.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and joyous about biting into these Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe. They manage to be crispy, creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive all at once. Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in or for impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe is a winner every time. Give them a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this snack in your life!
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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks are a delightful appetizer combining creamy mashed potatoes, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy, golden crust. These sticks offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible snack or party treat.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 3 russet potatoes, cooked and cubed
- ¼ cup bacon, diced
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup green onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Cheese
- 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into ¼ inch thick strips
Breading Station
- 1 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- ⅔ cup cornstarch
- 100 g panko breadcrumbs
Frying
- 1 liter vegetable oil (or canola/peanut oil) for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cubed russet potatoes, diced bacon, diced green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture until mostly smooth while leaving some chunks to provide texture.
- Cut the Cheese: Slice the block of cheddar cheese into strips approximately ¼ inch thick, perfect for inserting into the potato sticks.
- Shape the Potato Cheese Sticks: Take a spoonful of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a strip of cheddar cheese in the center, then wrap the potato mixture around it completely ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.
- Coat the Potato Sticks: Set up a breading station with three separate bowls containing flour, beaten egg, and a combined mixture of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Roll each potato cheese stick first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it with the cornstarch-panko breadcrumb mixture for a crispy crust.
- Fry the Potato Cheese Sticks: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pot. Fry the sticks in batches for about 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto paper towels to drain excess oil, and sprinkle with salt while still hot.
- Optional – Bake Instead of Frying: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated potato cheese sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For extra crispy results, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a different flavor and stretchier texture.
- These sticks are best enjoyed fresh and hot to keep the cheese melted inside.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispness.
- Use gloves or utensils to shape the sticks if the mixture is too sticky on your hands.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
