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
Scale
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
