Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- ▢ 2 1/2 cups mashed potatoes, chilled
- ▢ 1 large egg, whisked
Filling
- ▢ 1 cup roast turkey, chopped
- ▢ 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or cheddar)
Coating
- ▢ 1 large egg, whisked
- ▢ 1 cup breadcrumbs (white, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
For Cooking
- ▢ Olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil (for frying)
For Serving
- ▢ Gravy (optional)
- ▢ Cranberry sauce (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and 1 whisked egg until fully mixed.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the chopped turkey and shredded cheese.
- Scoop about 2 teaspoons of the turkey mixture and roll into a compact 1-inch ball.
- Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten it into a small patty in the palm of your hand.
- Place a turkey-cheese ball in the center and carefully wrap the potato mixture around it, sealing completely to form a larger ball.
- Place the second whisked egg in one bowl and the breadcrumbs in another.
- Roll each croquette in the egg, then coat completely in breadcrumbs.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a few breadcrumbs sizzle immediately upon contact.
- Fry the croquettes for about 60 seconds, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Immediately season lightly with salt.
- Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.
Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place breaded croquettes on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and heated through.
Notes
Use Cold Mashed Potatoes
Chilled mashed potatoes are much easier to shape and help the croquettes hold together during cooking.
Seal Tightly
Wrap the potato mixture firmly around the filling to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
Work Assembly-Line Style
Prepare all filling balls first, then shape all croquettes, then coat them. This makes the process much quicker and cleaner.
Cheese Tips
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and provides better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
Leftover Variations
- Substitute leftover chicken for turkey.
- Add chopped stuffing to the filling.
- Mix fresh herbs into the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
