Potato Cheese Sticks are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside! Made with mashed potatoes and gooey cheese, they’re a great snack or side dish.
These little delights are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. I can never stop at just one—like, who can resist cheesy goodness? 🤤
They’re super easy to whip up and great for when you want something tasty in no time. I often make extra to share, but they’re gone before I get the chance!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets are best for mashing and make the sticks fluffy. If you’re short on time, use pre-made mashed potatoes from the store, but check for added butter or seasoning.
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella adds a nice stretch, you can switch it with cheddar or gouda for different flavors. Personally, I love mixing mozzarella with a bit of pepper jack for a kick!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances flavor. If you can’t find it, use Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the mixture. For gluten-free options, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend, keeping the texture in mind.
Spices: The garlic and onion powders are key for added depth. Feel free to add smoked paprika or Italian seasoning if you enjoy a little more flavor complexity!
How Do I Shape My Potato Cheese Sticks Perfectly?
Shaping the sticks can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have consistent sizes. Start by lightly flouring your hands to prevent sticking.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions – a kitchen scale helps for accuracy.
- Roll each portion gently into a cylindrical shape, aiming for about 1/2 inch thick.
- If any sticks start to crumble, just pack the mixture together tightly, and re-flour your hands.
Place them on a floured tray to avoid sticking. Chilling them for about 15 minutes before frying can also help hold the shape better while cooking.
How to Make Potato Cheese Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 10-15 minutes for frying. So, you can expect to spend around 30-35 minutes in total to enjoy these crispy and cheesy Potato Cheese Sticks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender. Once cooked, drain the water and mash the potatoes in a large bowl until they are smooth and creamy. This will be the base for your delicious sticks!
2. Mix Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! To the mashed potatoes, mix in the shredded mozzarella cheese, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything until well mixed and a soft dough forms. If it feels a bit sticky, you can add a touch more flour.
3. Shape the Sticks:
Lightly dust your hands with flour to prevent sticking. Divide the potato mixture into equal portions (about 8-10 should work). Roll each piece into a cylindrical stick that is about 1/2 inch thick. Place the finished sticks on a floured tray to keep them from sticking together.
4. Fry the Sticks:
Next, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. You want the oil to be nice and hot! Carefully add the potato cheese sticks to the oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each stick for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Your Potato Cheese Sticks are now ready to shine! Transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or sour cream. Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are not too watery; if they seem a bit mushy, you can add a little more flour to help bind everything together.
What Can I Use Instead of Mozzarella Cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, try using cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses instead. Keep in mind that different cheeses will impart different flavors and textures, so choose one that you enjoy!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the sticks on a greased baking sheet. Brush them lightly with oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown. They may not be as crispy as fried ones, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Cheese Sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again.
