If you’re searching for the ultimate crispy, gooey snack that’s bound to steal the show at any party or family night in, Potato Cheese Sticks are my hands-down favorite treat! These savory bites combine fluffy mashed potatoes, stretchy mozzarella, and a hint of Parmesan, all wrapped up in a golden breadcrumb crust. Whether they’re the star of your appetizer table or a cheesy side for just about any meal, Potato Cheese Sticks are pure, comforting joy in every crunch. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Potato Cheese Sticks is in their simplicity—just a handful of staple ingredients, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s why each ingredient matters for the best results:
- Mashed potatoes: The hearty, creamy base that brings the filling together—leftovers work perfectly for this recipe!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers that irresistible cheesy stretch and melts beautifully inside every stick.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Punches up the savory factor with a nutty, salty kick.
- Garlic powder: Adds warm, aromatic flavor without overpowering the other goodness.
- Onion powder: Balances the garlic and complements the cheesy potato filling.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors to life—don’t skip this simple step!
- Black pepper: Lends a gentle bite and rounds out the seasoning.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Gives a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and ensures every bite has a tender crunch.
- Eggs (beaten): Binds the coating layers and locks in moisture.
- Breadcrumbs: The secret to that golden, crispy shell—panko style delivers extra crunch!
- Oil for frying: Keeps everything bubbling and bubbly until perfectly crisped up outside and hot inside.
How to Make Potato Cheese Sticks
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley if you’re opting for that fresh touch. Mix everything together until it forms a thick, even dough—don’t worry if you see some cheesy strands peeking through, that just means they’ll be extra melty!
Step 2: Shape Into Sticks
With clean, slightly damp hands, scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a log about three inches long. Place each stick on a baking tray lined with parchment or lightly greased, making sure they’re not touching. This step is a bit hands-on, but shaping is oddly satisfying!
Step 3: Chill to Firm
Pop the tray of formed Potato Cheese Sticks into your fridge for 20–30 minutes. This is key—chilling helps them hold their shape and makes the next steps a breeze. You’ll thank yourself for not skipping this part when the sticks fry up without falling apart.
Step 4: Set Up Your Dredging Station
While your sticks are chilling, organize your dredging setup: one shallow bowl for flour, another for beaten eggs, and a third for breadcrumbs. Having this ready to go means less mess and faster dunking when it’s time to coat each stick.
Step 5: Coat the Sticks
Working one at a time, roll each chilled Potato Cheese Stick in flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs (let any excess drip off), then roll it in breadcrumbs, gently pressing to ensure the crumbs stick all around. Set each coated stick back on your tray.
Step 6: Fry to Crispy Perfection
In a heavy skillet or saucepan, heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the potato cheese sticks in batches, frying just a few at a time so the oil temperature stays steady. Turn each stick as it sizzles until golden brown on all sides—about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool ever so slightly.
How to Serve Potato Cheese Sticks
Garnishes
Dress up your fresh-from-the-pan Potato Cheese Sticks with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives. A little dusting of grated Parmesan is never a bad idea, either! If you want a punch of heat, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce before serving.
Side Dishes
These sticks are at their best alongside a luscious dip—think classic marinara, cool ranch, or a spicy aioli for dipping. Pair with fresh vegetable crudités, a crisp salad, or roasted veggies for a simple yet satisfying meal or snack platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your Potato Cheese Sticks high on a rustic cutting board or serve them in a glass jar for a playful, pub-style look. Arrange in a spiral with a bowl of dipping sauce in the center for easy sharing at parties. For a fun twist, add toothpicks and serve appetizer-style—perfect for mingling!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Potato Cheese Sticks are a rare occurrence, but when they do happen, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let them cool completely before sealing to keep them crisp, and don’t forget to save that dipping sauce!
Freezing
Freeze uncooked, breaded Potato Cheese Sticks on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months—ready for those sudden snack cravings or impromptu guests.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Potato Cheese Sticks in a hot oven or air fryer until crisp and heated through—about 5–8 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy instead of wonderfully crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for the filling?
Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch, just make sure they’re thick, not runny, to help the sticks hold their shape. Adjust seasoning to taste, since instant mixes can vary in saltiness.
Is it possible to bake Potato Cheese Sticks instead of frying?
Yes! Arrange the breaded sticks on a greased baking sheet, give them a light spray of oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out crispy and delicious—just a bit lighter than the fried version.
What’s the best cheese to use inside?
Mozzarella is ideal for that stretchy, gooey bite, but you can mix in some cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra flavor. Avoid soft cheeses that might leak out during frying.
How do I keep the sticks from falling apart in the oil?
Chilling before breading and frying is crucial for firmness. Also, be sure not to overload your pan—fried in small batches, each Potato Cheese Stick will stay intact and crispy.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs for easy gluten-free cheese sticks everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing more satisfying (or crowd-pleasing) than a fresh batch of homemade Potato Cheese Sticks, bubbling hot and loaded with gooey cheese. They’re so much fun to make, and every crisp, melty bite is pure comfort. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give them a try soon, and watch them disappear before your eyes!
Print
Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 sticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Potato Cheese Sticks are a crispy and cheesy appetizer or snack made with mashed potatoes, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes and a crowd-pleasing finger food for any occasion.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Potato Mixture: Combine mashed potatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Shape into sticks and refrigerate.
- Dredge Sticks: Roll sticks in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry Sticks: Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience.
- For a baked version, spray coated sticks with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 sticks
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
