Potatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in the culinary world. They transform into comforting mashed potatoes, crispy fries, and even elegant gratins. Among these timeless classics, Crispy Potato Croquettes with Herbs and Parmesan shine as a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.
These croquettes are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with a burst of flavor from herbs like parsley and basil, complemented by the rich, nutty essence of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re preparing them as a snack, a side dish, or an appetizer for a dinner party, these croquettes are sure to impress.
The golden-brown crust and herby aroma make these a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re highly customizable—you can add different spices or fillings to suit your taste. Follow this detailed guide to achieve croquette perfection and bring a touch of gourmet elegance to your table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Potato Mixture:
- 2 large potatoes (around 500 grams)
- Cold water (for boiling)
- Salt (to taste)
- Paprika (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
For the Coating:
- 1 egg (beaten with a pinch of salt)
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped, for mixing and garnish)
- Basil (chopped, for the breadcrumb mixture)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (enough for shallow or deep frying)
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and Boil:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks.
- Place them in a pot of cold water with a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Mash them until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Season the Mash:
- Add salt, paprika, and black pepper to taste.
- Stir in the cornstarch to bind the mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Croquettes
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Mix finely chopped parsley into the potato mash for added flavor.
- Form Croquettes:
- Take small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into oval or cylindrical croquettes.
- Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Coat the Croquettes
- Prepare Coating Stations:
- In one bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
- Coat the Croquettes:
- Roll each croquette in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Dredge the croquette in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
Step 4: Fry the Croquettes
- Heat Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer over medium heat.
- The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a breadcrumb is dropped in.
- Fry Until Golden:
- Fry the croquettes in batches, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take 3–4 minutes per batch.
- Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli, ketchup, or sour cream.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield and Calories
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per Serving: ~180 kcal
Why This Recipe Is Timeless
The combination of crispy coating and fluffy potato filling has universal appeal. Croquettes have been a beloved dish in many cultures, from French cuisine to Spanish tapas, and this version stands out with the addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
The simplicity of the ingredients—humble potatoes paired with common pantry staples—ensures that this dish can be made on a whim. Yet, the result is anything but ordinary. The herbs and Parmesan elevate the flavor profile, making these croquettes suitable for casual snacking or elegant entertaining.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
FAQs
1. Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the coated croquettes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, lightly spray them with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Shape and coat the croquettes, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
3. What other fillings can I add?
You can stuff the croquettes with cheese cubes, cooked bacon, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for the coating.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the Potatoes Are Dry: After boiling, let the potatoes cool slightly to release excess steam. This helps prevent a soggy mixture.
- Shape with Wet Hands: Wet your hands slightly to prevent the potato mixture from sticking while shaping.
- Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness: Dip the croquettes in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice for a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use medium heat to ensure the croquettes cook evenly without burning the coating.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked, coated croquettes on a tray. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Crispy Potato Croquettes with Herbs and Parmesan are more than just a delicious dish—they’re a celebration of the power of simple ingredients, skillfully combined to create something truly extraordinary. The golden, crunchy exterior gives way to a soft and creamy potato filling, resulting in a texture contrast that is undeniably satisfying. The addition of fresh parsley, aromatic basil, and the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan elevates these croquettes to a level of culinary artistry that is both comforting and elegant.
What makes this recipe truly timeless is its versatility and adaptability. At its core, it marries the humble, nostalgic comfort of mashed potatoes with the sophistication of a perfectly crisp, herb-infused coating. These croquettes can effortlessly fit into any occasion, whether you’re serving them as a savory appetizer at a holiday gathering, a side dish for a hearty meal, or a standalone snack for a cozy evening at home. They are the kind of dish that transcends seasons, making them equally delightful in the warmth of summer or the chill of winter.
Beyond their incredible taste, these croquettes embody the essence of home cooking. The process of boiling, mashing, shaping, and frying the potatoes is a labor of love that reminds us of the joys of creating something with our own hands. There’s a sense of pride and accomplishment in watching these humble ingredients transform into golden-brown bites of deliciousness. It’s a reminder that some of the most cherished dishes are the ones that bring us back to our roots—simple, wholesome, and made with care.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can keep it traditional or experiment with fillings like cheese, bacon, or sautéed vegetables to add your own personal touch. It’s a dish that invites creativity while staying grounded in its timeless appeal. And because they store and reheat well, these croquettes can also be made ahead, making them a practical choice for busy days or meal prepping.