There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming humble ingredients into delightful bites of comfort food. Recently, while hosting a laid-back dinner with friends, I felt inspired by the abundance of sweet potatoes sitting in my pantry. As I mashed them up, thinking about their creamy sweetness, the idea of making Sweet Potato Croquettes came to life.
These little morsels are crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside, and they come together with minimal effort, making them the perfect dish for any occasion—be it a cozy family meal or an impressive appetizer for guests. With just three cups of mashed sweet potatoes, a sprinkle of cheese, and your choice of ham or bacon, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you prefer to deep fry, bake, or air fry, this versatile recipe offers options that fit any cooking style and dietary need. The moment you sink your teeth into a warm, cheesy croquette, you’ll know you’ve found a new favorite – one that may just replace your cravings for fast food! Let’s dive into the delightful world of these Sweet Potato Croquettes.
Why Are Sweet Potato Croquettes So Irresistible?
Crispy exterior: These croquettes boast a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with their creamy inside.
Savory fillings: The combination of cheese and bacon or ham brings out a rich, satisfying flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Versatile cooking methods: Whether you choose to deep fry, bake, or air fry, you can easily customize the method to suit your preferences.
Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time (plus a little chilling), you can whip up a batch of croquettes that are sure to impress.
Crowd-pleaser: These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, making them an excellent choice for parties or family gatherings.
Dive into comfort with these delicious sweet potato delights!
Sweet Potato Croquettes Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for making these delicious bites!
For the Croquettes
• Mashed sweet potatoes – 3 cups of creamy goodness form the base of our croquettes.
• Milk – 1/4 cup helps create a smooth mixture and enhances flavor.
• Cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, shredded, adds a savory, melty goodness.
• Cooked ham or bacon – 1/4 cup, finely chopped, for that irresistible salty crunch.
• Green onions – 1/4 cup, finely chopped, bring a fresh, oniony zing to the flavor profile.
• Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon lends a warm aroma and depth to every bite.
• Paprika (or chili powder) – 1/2 teaspoon adds a hint of sweetness and color.
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, a must for enhancing all the delicious flavors.
• Ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon for a gentle kick of heat.
• Panko breadcrumbs – 2 cups create the ultimate crunchy coating for our croquettes.
Unleash the deliciousness of these Sweet Potato Croquettes with these simple ingredients!
How to Make Sweet Potato Croquettes
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the mashed sweet potatoes, milk, cheese, ham, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
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Prepare Sweet Potatoes: To create fresh mashed sweet potatoes, peel and chop them. Boil in a large pot of water for about 25 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash until smooth.
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Shape Balls: Take about 2 tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture and roll them into small balls. This will be the base of your croquettes.
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Coat in Breadcrumbs: Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow plate. Gently dip each sweet potato ball into the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well-coated.
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Freeze for Firmness: Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined baking pan. Freeze for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.
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Deep Fry: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Fry the croquettes in batches until they turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes each.
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Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the crispy croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
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Bake Option: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the croquettes on a parchment paper-lined baking pan, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20 minutes until golden and crunchy.
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Air Fry Option: Place the croquettes in a single layer in your air fryer basket, spray lightly with cooking oil, and cook at 350°F for 13-15 minutes until golden brown and delightful.
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Croquettes?
Your table is about to burst with flavor and delightful pairings that elevate these crispy bites into a complete meal experience.
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Crunchy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the savory croquettes. The crisp textures and light dressing balance the rich flavors beautifully.
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Garlic Aioli: Serve alongside a creamy garlic aioli for dipping, enhancing each croquette’s taste with a luscious, zesty twist. It adds a layer of indulgence that melts into the sweet potato’s natural sweetness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Pair with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for added color, flavor, and nutrition. The lightly caramelized edges and earthy flavors bring warmth to the plate.
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Spicy Mango Salsa: A fresh and zesty mango salsa offers a vibrant sweet and spicy sensation that perfectly complements the savory croquettes. Each bite bursts with freshness, creating a delightful contrast.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy dish adds a wholesome grain element to your meal. The subtle flavors of herbs and spices in the pilaf enhance the croquettes without overwhelming them.
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Savory Tomato Soup: Cozy up with a bowl of tomato soup that provides a comforting dip for the croquettes. Its rich, tangy flavor harmonizes with the sweetness of sweet potatoes.
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Chardonnay or Light Beer: Pair with a refreshing glass of Chardonnay or a light craft beer. Both beverages elevate the dining experience with their crispness, enhancing the croquettes’ textures.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, serve a light and airy chocolate mousse. The richness creates a perfect balance after the savory meal, leaving everyone satisfied yet wanting more.
Elevate your dining experience with these splendid pairings that keep your taste buds tingling with excitement!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Croquettes are an excellent option for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture (without breadcrumbs) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, once you shape the croquettes and coat them with breadcrumbs, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To maintain their quality, ensure they are fully frozen before transferring them to a freezer bag to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry, bake, or air fry them from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time for perfectly crispy results!
Sweet Potato Croquettes Variations
There’s always room to personalize your croquettes and make them your own!
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Vegan: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for a plant-based twist. These snacks can be just as indulgent without dairy!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 tablespoon of diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a fiery heat. This little twist may just light up your taste buds!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for an extra layer of flavor. It adds a fresh burst that elevates the croquette experience.
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Gluten-Free: Use crushed gluten-free crackers instead of panko breadcrumbs. You can enjoy the crunch without the gluten—it’s just as delicious!
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Mediterranean Flair: Add feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired croquette. This variation brings a delightful new flavor profile that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
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Loaded Croquettes: Mix in diced vegetables or even cheese-stuffed center for a little surprise in every bite. It’s like discovering a treasure with each mouthful!
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Sweet Twist: For a dessert-like option, blend a hint of cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup into the mixture. These can make a sweet treat that ends your meal on a delightful note!
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Cheesy Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or goat cheese for unique flavor combinations. Each cheese brings out a distinct character in your croquettes that keeps things interesting!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Croquettes
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Perfect Consistency: Ensure your sweet potato mixture is smooth and well-blended. Clumps will make shaping difficult, so mix thoroughly.
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Freezing is Key: Don’t skip freezing the croquettes before cooking! This helps them hold their shape during frying, preventing them from falling apart.
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Breadcrumb Coating: For extra crunch, double-coat the croquettes by dipping them back in the mixture before coating in panko again.
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Cooking Method Choices: Experiment with different cooking methods! Baking is lighter, frying offers ultimate crunch, and air frying can be healthier without sacrificing flavor.
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to swap ham or bacon for veggies or other proteins according to your taste—these Sweet Potato Croquettes are incredibly versatile!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Croquettes
Room Temperature: These delicious croquettes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep them out, only store at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked Sweet Potato Croquettes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or air fry at 350°F for 15-18 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Sweet Potato Croquettes Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting sweet potatoes?
Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and a vibrant color. If you see bruises or soft spots, it’s best to avoid those as they may be spoiled.
How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Croquettes?
To keep your croquettes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Croquettes?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked croquettes, arrange the shaped balls in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm for about 15-20 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and they will last for up to 2 months. No need to thaw before cooking!
What if my croquettes fall apart while frying?
If your croquettes are falling apart, it may be a sign that the mixture is too moist. Make sure to freeze them as directed before frying, and try adding a bit more panko breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind everything. Alternatively, ensure your oil is hot enough before starting to fry.
Are Sweet Potato Croquettes safe for my pets?
It’s best to avoid feeding sweet potatoes to pets, especially when they are seasoned or mixed with other ingredients like cheese and ham. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly alternative, plain boiled sweet potatoes can be a healthy treat in moderation.
Can I customize the ingredients in my Sweet Potato Croquettes?
Very! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses, proteins, or herbs. If you want a vegetarian option, omit the ham or bacon and consider adding diced bell peppers or spinach instead for added flavor and nutrition!
Crispy Sweet Potato Croquettes You’ll Crave Every Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the mashed sweet potatoes, milk, cheese, ham, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- To create fresh mashed sweet potatoes, peel and chop them. Boil in a large pot of water for about 25 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash until smooth.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture and roll them into small balls. This will be the base of your croquettes.
- Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow plate. Gently dip each sweet potato ball into the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined baking pan. Freeze for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Fry the croquettes in batches until they turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes each.
- Transfer the crispy croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the croquettes on a parchment paper-lined baking pan, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20 minutes until golden and crunchy.
- Place the croquettes in a single layer in your air fryer basket, spray lightly with cooking oil, and cook at 350°F for 13-15 minutes until golden brown and delightful.