Turkey Bacon-Cheddar Potato Croquettes

Turkey bacon-cheddar potato croquettes are a savory, golden-crisp comfort food packed with creamy mashed potatoes, smoky turkey bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. These bite-sized delights are lightly crispy on the outside and irresistibly tender and cheesy on the inside, making them the perfect fusion of creamy indulgence and flavorful crunch. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these croquettes bring cozy homemade flavor with a gourmet touch.

This recipe is the perfect way to turn humble ingredients into something truly special. The smokiness of turkey bacon pairs beautifully with the sharpness of cheddar, all enveloped in a velvety potato base that’s rolled into bite-sized logs or spheres and fried until golden. Ideal for gatherings, brunch tables, lunchboxes, or even party platters, these croquettes are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and undeniably delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turkey bacon-cheddar potato croquettes offer a satisfying blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures in every bite. Unlike traditional deep-fried snacks that feel heavy, these croquettes are made with turkey bacon, giving you the rich smoky flavor you crave in a lighter form. Cheddar adds depth and sharpness, complementing the smoothness of the potatoes perfectly.

You’ll also love how versatile and freezer-friendly this recipe is. You can make a big batch ahead of time, freeze them, and fry or bake them fresh whenever needed. They’re a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes or add a fun twist to your appetizer game. With a perfectly crisp outer shell and melty, savory filling, these croquettes are bound to become a new favorite.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 25 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Chill time: 30 minutes (optional for better shape retention)

• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Yield: 24 croquettes

• Serving Size: 3 croquettes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 260

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the croquette filling:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (well-seasoned and cooled)

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup cooked turkey bacon, chopped

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or dried herbs in breadcrumbs

For frying:

• Neutral oil for shallow or deep frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, chopped turkey bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.

• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

2. Shape the croquettes

• Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small logs or balls using your hands.

• Repeat until all the mixture is used.

• Place shaped croquettes on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them firm up (optional but recommended).

3. Set up breading station

• Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs (seasoned with paprika or herbs if desired).

4. Coat the croquettes

• Roll each croquette in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.

• Press gently to ensure breadcrumbs stick well.

• Set aside on a clean tray.

5. Fry the croquettes

• Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat (about 350°F/175°C).

• Fry croquettes in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp (about 3–4 minutes per side).

• Remove and drain on paper towels.

6. Serve warm

• Serve croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, sour cream, spicy ketchup, or yogurt-based dips.

• Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.

Ingredient Background

Mashed potatoes form the creamy base of these croquettes, giving them a soft, rich texture. Using cooled and firm mashed potatoes helps them hold their shape better during frying. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold, tangy note and melts beautifully, while turkey bacon brings a smoky flavor with less fat than traditional pork bacon.

Breadcrumbs give the croquettes their signature crunch, while flour and egg help create a binding coating that seals the filling during frying. Adding green onions or chives gives a fresh, subtle lift to the rich flavors, rounding out the taste profile.

Technique Tips

Use firm, chilled mashed potatoes to ensure the croquettes shape easily and hold together during frying. If your mash is too soft, stir in a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs or flour to firm it up. Shaping the croquettes uniformly ensures even cooking and a consistent bite.

Don’t overcrowd the frying pan—this can drop the oil temperature and result in soggy croquettes. Fry in small batches and maintain medium heat for a crisp golden crust. For extra crunch, double-coat the croquettes in egg and breadcrumbs before frying.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Croquettes can be styled to suit different occasions. Serve mini versions as appetizers or hors d’oeuvres on toothpicks with dipping sauces. For a more elegant touch, stack them on a platter with microgreens and drizzled aioli.

You can also flatten them slightly to form patties and serve in sliders or wraps with fresh vegetables and sauces. For a fun brunch twist, top croquettes with a poached egg and hollandaise for a potato-bacon Benedict alternative.

Additional Tips for Success

Chill the croquettes before frying—it helps them hold shape and cook evenly. Add spices or herbs to the breadcrumb coating for extra flavor and visual appeal. Keep fried croquettes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while finishing the batch.

Don’t skip draining the fried croquettes on paper towels—it prevents them from becoming greasy. If reheating later, bake them in a hot oven to restore crispiness rather than microwaving.

Recipe Variations

Switch up the cheese by using mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Add finely chopped cooked vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for more texture and nutrition. Mix in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or sour cream into the filling for a tangy twist.

Try using sweet potatoes in place of regular mashed potatoes for a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. Replace turkey bacon with shredded grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for different protein options. For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling.

Freezing and Storage

Turkey bacon-cheddar potato croquettes freeze beautifully. After shaping and breading, place croquettes on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 2 months.

To cook from frozen, fry directly (no need to thaw) or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and heated through. Store leftover cooked croquettes in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crisp.

Healthier Twist Ideas

For a lighter version, bake the croquettes instead of frying. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway. Use low-fat cheese and reduce the turkey bacon amount slightly if preferred.

For a gluten-free option, use rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Add mashed cauliflower or carrots to replace a portion of the potatoes for added nutrition. Serve with yogurt-based dips instead of mayo-based sauces to cut down on calories.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These croquettes are perfect for casual parties, family gatherings, brunch spreads, or potluck dinners. Serve them alongside fresh salads, creamy soups, or grilled vegetables. Add them to grazing boards or appetizer platters with olives, pickles, and cheeses.

For formal events, serve as a plated starter with a drizzle of garlic herb sauce and a garnish of microgreens. Pair with sparkling water, iced tea, or herbal lemonade for a well-rounded meal.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls

• Potato masher or ricer

• Baking tray for shaping and chilling

• Shallow bowls for breading

• Frying pan or deep fryer

• Slotted spoon or tongs

• Paper towels for draining

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

• Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Just ensure they’re firm and well-seasoned.

2. Can I bake instead of fry?

• Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping.

3. Can I make croquettes ahead of time?

• Yes, you can shape and bread them in advance. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for later use.

4. What type of cheese works best?

• Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, but you can use gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for variety.

5. How do I keep them from falling apart during frying?

• Use chilled mashed potatoes and refrigerate shaped croquettes before frying to help them hold together.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Yes, substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

7. Can I use regular bacon?

• You can, but for a lighter option, turkey bacon works beautifully and still adds great flavor.

8. What sauces go well with croquettes?

• Garlic aioli, honey mustard, spicy ketchup, sour cream dip, or herb yogurt sauce all pair wonderfully.

Conclusion

Turkey bacon-cheddar potato croquettes are a savory treat that brings together familiar comfort and satisfying crunch in every bite. With their creamy interior and golden exterior, they’re an easy way to elevate mashed potatoes into a show-stopping appetizer or side. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping ahead, this recipe offers convenience, flexibility, and indulgent flavor.

The simple ingredients come together in a way that feels both gourmet and homey, proving that you don’t need complicated steps to make something truly special. Once you try these croquettes, you’ll find yourself making them again and again—crispy, cheesy, and always a hit.

Print