Potato cheese sticks are a savory and satisfying snack that will quickly become a favorite in your household. The combination of crispy, golden-brown potatoes and gooey melted cheese inside is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer for a gathering or a delicious snack to enjoy with family, this potato cheese sticks recipe is perfect for every occasion.
This dish features a crispy exterior made from seasoned breadcrumbs, and inside, you’ll find a delightful surprise: tender potato and gooey cheese. The best part? These potato cheese sticks are easy to make with simple ingredients like potatoes, cheese, breadcrumbs, and a few basic seasonings. They’re also versatile—feel free to add spices or herbs of your choice to customize the flavor to your liking.
What makes these cheese sticks so addictive is the perfect balance between the soft potato interior and the crispy, golden-brown crust. Once you bite into them, the melted cheese oozes out, creating a satisfying texture contrast. Whether baked or fried, these potato cheese sticks will become your go-to recipe for parties, movie nights, or whenever you need a delicious snack.
These sticks can be served on their own or with a side of dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli. It’s a snack that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
There are so many reasons why you will love making potato cheese sticks at home! For starters, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, using just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Potatoes, cheese, breadcrumbs, and a few spices come together to create a satisfying snack that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. It’s the perfect combination of textures that make these cheese sticks a true crowd-pleaser.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it in many ways depending on your tastes. Add herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor, or experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack, for a variety of tastes. You can also make these sticks as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting the amount of chili flakes or seasoning you use.
What makes these potato cheese sticks so fun is the variety of ways you can prepare them. You can either bake them for a lighter version or fry them for that perfect crispiness. Whether you choose to fry or bake, they both result in a deliciously golden exterior and a gooey cheesy center that will have everyone coming back for more.
These potato cheese sticks are also a great make-ahead option. You can prepare them in advance, freeze them, and cook them whenever you need a quick snack or appetizer. Whether you serve them at a party, as a side dish, or just as a snack, they are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and boiled)
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
Equipment Used
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings to form the filling.
- Shallow Bowls: For setting up the breading stations (flour, egg, and breadcrumbs).
- Potato Peeler: To peel the potatoes before boiling them.
- Pot: For boiling the potatoes until they are soft and ready to be mashed.
- Fork or Potato Masher: To mash the boiled potatoes until smooth.
- Baking Sheet or Frying Pan: A baking sheet is used for baking the sticks, while a frying pan is needed if you prefer to fry them.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet, ensuring the cheese sticks don’t stick and for easy cleanup.
- Pastry Brush: If you’re baking, use this to lightly brush the potato sticks with oil for a crisp, golden finish.
- Slotted Spoon or Tongs: If frying, a slotted spoon or tongs are handy for turning the sticks and removing them from the oil.
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and boiling the potatoes until they are soft (about 15 minutes). Once they are cooked, drain them and mash them well until smooth. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the grated cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Shape the Sticks: Once the filling is ready, take small portions of the potato and cheese mixture and roll them into cylindrical shapes to form the sticks. Try to make them as uniform as possible for even cooking.
- Prepare the Breading: In three shallow bowls, prepare the breading stations. Place the flour in the first bowl, the beaten egg in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each potato stick first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat it completely. Repeat for each stick.
- Cook the Sticks: You can either fry or bake the potato cheese sticks.
- To Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the sticks for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- To Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the potato cheese sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 per serving (2 sticks)
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Potato cheese sticks are a delicious and indulgent treat, but they can be part of a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation. While they’re higher in fat and calories due to the cheese and frying, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. The potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy, while the cheese adds protein and calcium. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using reduced-fat cheese and baking the sticks instead of frying them.
Variations
- Different Cheese: Swap out cheddar and mozzarella for other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the potato and cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Version: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme into the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal for a gluten-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the potato cheese sticks ahead of time, coat them in breadcrumbs, and freeze them. When you’re ready to cook them, simply fry or bake them directly from the freezer.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking the potato cheese sticks is a healthier option. Just place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with a little oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
While homemade mashed potatoes yield the best results, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just ensure they’re smooth and not too watery.
Can I use different fillings?
Yes! You can get creative with your fillings by adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even spinach to the mashed potato mixture for extra flavor.
Pro Tips By Emma
- Freeze Before Cooking: Freezing the shaped cheese sticks for 15-20 minutes before cooking helps them hold together and prevents the cheese from leaking out during frying or baking.
- Season Well: Don’t forget to season the mashed potatoes well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for the best flavor.
- Use a Light Hand with the Oil: If you’re baking the sticks, lightly spray them with oil instead of drenching them to keep them crispy without excess fat.
Serving Suggestions
These potato cheese sticks are perfect as an appetizer or snack and pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy aioli for extra flavor. They also make a great side dish to accompany burgers, sandwiches, or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.
Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe : Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings to form the filling.
- Shallow Bowls: For setting up the breading stations (flour, egg, and breadcrumbs).
- Potato Peeler: To peel the potatoes before boiling them.
- Pot: For boiling the potatoes until they are soft and ready to be mashed.
- Fork or Potato Masher: To mash the boiled potatoes until smooth.
- Baking Sheet or Frying Pan: A baking sheet is used for baking the sticks, while a frying pan is needed if you prefer to fry them.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet, ensuring the cheese sticks don't stick and for easy cleanup.
- Pastry Brush: If you’re baking, use this to lightly brush the potato sticks with oil for a crisp, golden finish.
- Slotted Spoon or Tongs: If frying, a slotted spoon or tongs are handy for turning the sticks and removing them from the oil.
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized potatoes peeled and boiled
- 1 cup grated cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and boiling the potatoes until they are soft (about 15 minutes). Once they are cooked, drain them and mash them well until smooth. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the grated cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Shape the Sticks: Once the filling is ready, take small portions of the potato and cheese mixture and roll them into cylindrical shapes to form the sticks. Try to make them as uniform as possible for even cooking.
- Prepare the Breading: In three shallow bowls, prepare the breading stations. Place the flour in the first bowl, the beaten egg in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each potato stick first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat it completely. Repeat for each stick.
- Cook the Sticks: You can either fry or bake the potato cheese sticks.
- To Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the sticks for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- To Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the potato cheese sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.