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How to Make Crispy Cheese and Sausage Croquettes
1. Cook the Sausage
- Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (or breakfast sausage) to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Cook until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, mashed potatoes, and cream cheese (if using).
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir to combine. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if desired).
- Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the filling is smooth and creamy. The mashed potatoes should help hold everything together, while the cheese gives it a rich, melty texture.
3. Shape the Croquettes
- Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the filling and roll it into a small ball or oval shape. Continue until all the mixture is used up.
- If the mixture is a bit sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour to make shaping easier.
4. Coat the Croquettes
- Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the bread crumbs in a third.
- Roll each croquette in the flour, making sure it’s lightly coated. Then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it with the bread crumbs. For extra crunch, you can double coat the croquettes by repeating the egg and bread crumb steps.
5. Fry the Croquettes
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the croquettes into the oil.
- Fry the croquettes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the croquettes immediately while they’re hot and crispy. You can garnish them with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
- Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup, hot sauce, or ranch dressing.
Tips for Perfect Croquettes
✅ Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes – If you have leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal, this is a great way to repurpose them into something delicious. If not, simply mash some fresh potatoes with butter and cream for a smooth filling.
✅ Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness – For an extra-crispy exterior, double-coat the croquettes in the bread crumbs. Dip them in the egg and crumbs again for a thicker crust.
✅ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry the croquettes in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become golden and crispy without sticking together.
✅ Use Panko Bread Crumbs – Panko bread crumbs create a lighter, crispier texture than regular bread crumbs. If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs will work too.
✅ Make Ahead – You can prepare and coat the croquettes ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to a day, then fry them when you’re ready to serve.
Why These Croquettes Are So Irresistible
These Crispy Cheese and Sausage Croquettes are everything you want in a snack—crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The sausage brings a savory richness, while the cheese melts beautifully inside, making each bite deliciously satisfying. The golden, crunchy exterior adds the perfect contrast to the creamy filling, creating a snack that’s as comforting as it is addictive.
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving a tasty treat, these croquettes are sure to impress. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in no time!
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