Description
Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks offer an irresistible snack experience featuring mashed potatoes blended with rich cheeses and seasonings, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. These cheesy, crunchy sticks are perfect as appetizers or party snacks, delivering a warm, savory bite that pairs wonderfully with dips like sour cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 additional egg (beaten, for coating)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, one egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a consistent mixture.
- Shape the Sticks: Using your hands, shape the mixture into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. Arrange them on a tray and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to help them firm up for easier breading and frying.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three separate bowls—one with flour, one with the beaten egg for coating, and one with the breadcrumbs. This will make the breading process organized and efficient.
- Bread the Sticks: Take each chilled stick and roll it first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it evenly with the breadcrumbs. Ensure each stick is fully coated to achieve a crispy exterior when fried.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), which is the optimal frying temperature for these sticks.
- Fry the Sticks: Carefully add the breaded sticks to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they become golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot, paired with sour cream or your preferred dipping sauce for a delightful snack.
Notes
- Utilize leftover mashed potatoes to save time and reduce waste.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture.
- To make a lighter version, bake the coated sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
