Description
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these Potato Cheese Sticks are a deliciously indulgent snack made with mashed russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy panko coating. Perfectly fried to golden perfection, they make a great appetizer or party treat for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 4 russet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 8 oz cheddar cheese block, cut into strips
Coating
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Mash the cooked russet potatoes in a large bowl. Add the chopped green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix together, mashing until the mixture is mostly smooth but still has a few chunks for texture.
- Form the Balls: Take a spoonful of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a strip of cheddar cheese in the center and wrap the potato around the cheese completely to form a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture and cheese strips.
- Prepare the Coating: Arrange three separate bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with a mixture of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Coat each potato ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and roll thoroughly in the panko and cornstarch mixture to evenly coat.
- Fry the Potato Cheese Sticks: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (180°C). Fry the potato balls in batches for approximately 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the hot potato cheese sticks immediately to enjoy the crispy exterior and melty cheese inside.
Notes
- Make sure the potatoes are well drained before mashing to avoid a soggy mixture.
- You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or another melty cheese for a different flavor.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even frying and avoid greasy sticks.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture.
- These sticks are best eaten fresh for maximum crispiness.
