Name: Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 russet potatoes, cooked and cubed; ¼ cup green onion, diced; ½ cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into ¼ inch thick strips; Flour (for dredging, quantity as needed); 1 egg, beaten; ⅔ cup cornstarch; 100 g panko breadcrumbs; 1 litre vegetable oil or canola oil or peanut oil

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Introduction

Potato Cheese Sticks are a deliciously crispy and cheesy snack perfect for any occasion. Made with creamy mashed potatoes wrapped around cheddar cheese, these sticks offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

A close-up shot shows a golden-brown, crispy mozzarella stick dipped halfway into a bowl of thick, red marinara sauce with a slightly chunky texture. In the background, a woman’s hand holds the mozzarella stick near the edge of the bowl, while a white plate stacked with several more mozzarella sticks sits on a white marbled surface, slightly blurred to keep focus on the dipping action. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
¼ cup green onion, diced
½ cup sour cream
3 russet potatoes, cooked and cubed
1 block cheddar cheese, cut into strips
⅔ cup cornstarch
100 g panko breadcrumbs
Flour (for coating)
1 egg (beaten)
1 litre vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cubed russet potatoes, diced green onions, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture.
Step 2: Cut the block of cheddar cheese into strips about ¼ inch thick.
Step 3: Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cheese strip in the center and wrap the potato mixture around it to form a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully covered. Repeat with remaining mixture.
Step 4: Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a mix of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the panko mixture.
Step 5: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (180°C), ensuring it is at least 2 inches deep.
Step 6: Carefully fry the coated potato sticks in batches for about 3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with salt while hot.
Step 7: (Optional baking method) Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese melts and the exterior is golden.
Step 8: Let the potato cheese sticks cool slightly before serving, as they will be hot. Enjoy as a tasty snack or appetizer.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the potato mixture.
Use your favorite cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
If baking, flipping the sticks halfway through ensures even crispiness.

Storage

Store leftover potato cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a stack of eight golden-brown fried sticks with a crispy, bubbly texture on the outside. One stick is broken open and positioned on top, revealing a soft, white, fluffy inside stretching slightly apart. In the background, there is a small black bowl filled with red dipping sauce placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the potato mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and mash the potatoes a day ahead. Keep the mixture refrigerated and shape and coat the sticks just before frying or baking for the best texture.

Can I freeze potato cheese sticks?

Absolutely. Freeze the coated sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.