Crispy Cheesy Potato Croquettes

When comfort food meets modern convenience, magic happens in the form of these golden, crispy Funeral Potatoes Croquettes. Born from the beloved American casserole tradition, these bite-sized delights transform the classic creamy, cheesy potato dish into perfectly portioned croquettes that are air-fried to perfection. Each bite delivers that nostalgic combination of tender mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy sour cream, all wrapped in a satisfyingly crunchy cornflake coating. Whether you're serving them at a family gathering, game day party, or simply craving a comforting snack, these croquettes bring all the flavor of the original with a fun, handheld twist and a lighter preparation method.

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The beauty of these croquettes lies in their simplicity and adaptability. The base mixture comes together quickly with everyday ingredients, and the shaping process is forgiving—whether you prefer neat cylinders or rustic balls, they'll taste equally delicious. The double coating of egg wash and crushed cornflakes creates that signature crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful potato filling. And because they're cooked in the air fryer, you get all that satisfying crispiness without the mess and extra calories of deep frying. Best of all, they reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers that actually taste fresh.

Ingredients

• Potato Mixture: 3 cups cooked and cooled russet potatoes, mashed; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Coating: 1 cup finely crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the potato mixture

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and smooth.

Step 2: Shape the croquettes

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small cylinders or balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all mixture is used.

Step 3: Set up coating stations

In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk together. Place crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs in a separate shallow bowl.

Step 4: Coat the croquettes

Dip each croquette first into the egg mixture, then roll in the cornflakes or breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 5: Preheat the air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 6: Air fry the croquettes

Arrange croquettes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each. Spray lightly with oil spray.

Step 7: Cook until golden

Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with remaining croquettes if necessary.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure your mashed potatoes are completely cooled before mixing with the other ingredients—this helps the croquettes hold their shape better during coating and cooking. When shaping, slightly wet your hands to prevent sticking and create smoother surfaces. The oil spray before air frying is essential for achieving that deep golden color and extra crispiness. If you're making a large batch, keep the shaped and coated croquettes in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before cooking to help them firm up even more. For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the potato mixture. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.

Varianten und Anpassungen

These croquettes are wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. Try mixing in crumbled bacon or diced ham for a non-vegetarian version that echoes the classic funeral potatoes even more closely. You can swap the cheddar for Gruyère, pepper jack, or a sharp white cheddar for different flavor profiles. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond meal instead of panko breadcrumbs. If you prefer a tangier taste, increase the sour cream slightly or add a touch of cream cheese to the mixture. Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill can be mixed into the potato base for added brightness.

Serviervorschläge

These croquettes shine as both an appetizer and a side dish, making them incredibly versatile for any meal. Serve them alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a brunch spread with eggs and fresh fruit. For dipping, offer ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, chipotle mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce. They're perfect for game day spreads, potlucks, or holiday gatherings where finger foods are king. Garnish with extra chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh chives for an elegant presentation. Leftovers reheat well in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, making them a convenient make-ahead option.

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These Funeral Potatoes Croquettes prove that comfort food can be both nostalgic and innovative. By transforming a beloved casserole into crispy, portable bites and using the air fryer for a healthier cooking method, you get all the satisfaction of the original with added convenience and versatility. Whether you're introducing this dish to a new generation or reimagining a family favorite, these golden croquettes deliver on flavor, texture, and pure comfort in every single bite. Make a batch today and watch them disappear faster than you can say "pass the ranch!"

Questions & Answers

→ What potatoes work best for croquettes?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy texture when cooked and mashed, which helps create a smooth mixture that binds well.

→ Can I use a different coating than cornflakes?

Yes, panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers provide excellent crunch and can be used as alternatives to cornflakes.

→ How do I ensure the croquettes stay crispy?

Air-frying at 390°F and turning halfway through cooking helps achieve an even, crispy exterior without sogginess.

→ Is there a way to add more flavor to the potato mixture?

Incorporating smoked paprika or finely chopped herbs can elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the base ingredients.

→ Can I prepare the croquettes ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape and coat the croquettes in advance and refrigerate before air-frying to save time.