These crispy potato cheese sticks are the ultimate comfort snack! Made with creamy cheese and golden potatoes, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
What I love is how they turn out crunchy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. They disappear fast at my house—especially during movie nights! 🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture. If you’re looking for an alternative, Yukon Golds work well too. They have a nice buttery flavor!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that wonderful stretch, but feel free to mix in cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan cheese options that melt well.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are the best for extra crunch. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs are fine. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a unique crunch!
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a lovely freshness, but if you don’t have it, dried herbs like Italian seasoning can work too.
How Can I Ensure My Potato Cheese Sticks Are Super Crispy?
Getting that crunchy exterior is key! Here are some tips:
- Use panko breadcrumbs—they’re lighter and crisp up beautifully. If you double coat each stick, you’ll get even more crunch!
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F). Test with a small piece; it should sizzle right away.
- Fry in batches to avoid crowding. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and makes them soggy.
- After frying, let them drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil—this helps keep them crispy!
Enjoy making your crispy potato cheese sticks, and don’t forget to dip them in your favorite sauce for that extra zing!
Crispy Homemade Potato Cheese Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Cheese Sticks:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crispiness)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce or ketchup, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to fry, so in total you will need around 30 minutes to enjoy your crispy potato cheese sticks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into chunks. In a large pot, boil them in salted water until they are tender but not mushy, which should take around 10-12 minutes. Once they’re cooked, drain the potatoes and mash them thoroughly until smooth. Allow them to cool completely before moving to the next step.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. This is the delicious filling for your potato sticks!
3. Shape the Sticks:
Now, it’s time to shape the sticks! Take a portion of the mixture and roll it into sticks about 3-4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place the sticks on a tray lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.
4. Prepare for Breading:
Get three separate bowls ready: one filled with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs. This will help you create that crispy coating.
5. Bread the Sticks:
Let’s bread those sticks! Take each potato cheese stick and first dip it in the flour, making sure it’s well-coated. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, then finally coat it with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy layer, feel free to do a double dip by going through the egg and breadcrumbs again!
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach around 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. If you don’t have a thermometer, a small piece of bread should sizzle when the oil is ready.
7. Fry the Sticks:
Carefully place the potato cheese sticks in the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Drain and Garnish:
Once golden, use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step keeps them crispy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your crispy potato cheese sticks with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with marinara sauce or ketchup for dipping, and enjoy your delicious snack!
Enjoy your crispy homemade potato cheese sticks as a perfect snack or appetizer! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes, but keep in mind that they have a different flavor and texture. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as sweet potatoes can become softer when boiled. Also, consider reducing the salt to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded sticks on a lined baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover potato cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore some of their crispiness, or enjoy them in the microwave, though they may not be as crunchy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sticks up to the frying step and keep them in the refrigerator for a day before cooking. Just ensure they are covered well to avoid drying out. You can also freeze them before frying—just place them in a single layer on a tray until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container. Fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
