Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks

Introduction

After trying this recipe for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks, I can confidently say it has become a family favorite. The first time I made them, my kids were immediately drawn to the golden-brown exterior, and once they took a bite, their eyes lit up with joy. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese was irresistible! Even my partner, who is usually indifferent to potato-based snacks, couldn’t help but reach for a second (and third) stick. These cheese sticks are perfect for parties or a cozy night in, and they definitely deliver on taste and texture.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into ¼ inch thick strips
• ⅔ cup cornstarch
• 100 g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 liter vegetable oil (or canola/peanut oil) for frying

Instructions

1. 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 everything together with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture.
2. Cut the Cheese:
   Cut the cheddar cheese block into strips about ¼ inch thick.
3. 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 and wrap the potato mixture around it, forming a ball or stick shape. Ensure the cheese is fully covered. Repeat this process with the remaining potato mixture.
4. Coat the Potato Sticks:
   Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a mixture of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Roll each potato cheese stick in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the cornstarch and panko breadcrumb mixture.
5. Fry the Potato Cheese Sticks:
   Heat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (180°C). Fry the coated potato sticks in batches for about 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the potato sticks using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt while still hot.
6. Optional: Bake Instead of Frying:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated potato sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: About 1 hour
• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Snack: Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.
• As an Appetizer: Present them on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating.
• With a Salad: Pair them with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with extra green onions or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Double Coating: For extra crispiness, double coat the potato cheese sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating step.
2. Cheese Variations: You can swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
3. Chill Before Frying: Refrigerate the potato sticks for 30 minutes before frying to prevent them from falling apart.
4. Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) to achieve the perfect crunch.
5. Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy sticks.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Cheesy Bliss: Incorporate a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella and Monterey Jack, for a gooey center.
• Baked Potato Cheese Balls: Instead of sticks, shape the mixture into balls for a different presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces:
• Ranch Dressing
• Spicy Ketchup
• Honey Mustard
• Buffalo Sauce
• Pair with a refreshing drink, like iced tea or lemonade, to balance the richness of the cheese sticks.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, arrange the uncooked potato cheese sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
• Cooking from Frozen: Fry directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
   Yes, you can use Yukon gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
2. What can I substitute for sour cream?
   Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare them and store them in the fridge before frying.
4. What should I do if my potato sticks fall apart while frying?
   Ensure that the mixture is well-chilled before frying and that the oil is hot enough.
5. Can I bake them instead of frying?
   Yes, baking is a healthier option. Just be sure to oil them lightly for crispiness.
6. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
   You can drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles and browns within a minute, the oil is ready.
7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
   Absolutely! Finely chopped veggies like spinach or zucchini can be added to the potato mixture.
8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make it gluten-free.
10. Can I use an air fryer?
    Yes, air frying is a great way to achieve a crispy texture with less oil.

Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Cheese Sticks are not just a recipe; they are a delightful experience for the whole family. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, their cheesy, crispy goodness is sure to impress. With easy-to-follow instructions and room for variations, you can make this dish your own. Try them out and watch as they disappear from the plate—your family will thank you!

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