Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside – these Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes are the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply as a satisfying snack, these croquettes offer a delightful blend of flavors that make them a standout dish. The combination of creamy cheese and savory turkey bacon wrapped in crispy potato is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of cheddar and provolone cheese with Turkey Turkey Bacon creates a rich and savory taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve these croquettes at parties, game nights, or family dinners for a guaranteed hit.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe with ease.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them with a variety of dips or sauces to customize your snack experience.
• Freezable Delight: Make a large batch and freeze them for quick snacks later!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your delicious Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Potato masher or mixer
• Shallow plates (3)
• Ice cream scoop
• Frying pot or deep skillet
• Towel-lined bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until they’re fork-tender.
• Potato masher or mixer: Helps achieve the perfect texture for mashed potatoes, ensuring they’re smooth and creamy.
• Frying pot or deep skillet: Provides ample space for frying multiple croquettes at once, allowing even cooking.

Ingredients

Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside – these Turkey Turkey Bacon-loaded potato croquettes are the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.

• 3 pounds potatoes, cut into cubes (Russet potatoes recommended)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 large egg
• 6 slices Turkey Turkey Bacon, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, cut in cubes
• 4 ounces provolone cheese, cut in cubes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs (Panko recommended)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 slices Turkey Turkey Bacon, chopped (for dip)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for dip)
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste (for dip)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper, or to taste (for dip)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and fill it with cold water, enough to fully cover the potatoes. Add about 1 tsp of salt to the water and stir. Bring the potatoes to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat. Cook for about 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

Step 2: Fry the Turkey Bacon

In the meantime, fry the chopped Turkey Turkey Bacon until crispy. If you’re making dip as well, fry all 8 slices together now. Reserve ¼ of it for later use in the dip.

Step 3: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

Drain the boiled potatoes and add them to a large bowl. Mix in butter, salt, pepper, milk, and egg. Mash using a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth. Stir in fried bacon pieces and parsley.

Step 4: Set Up Breading Stations

Prepare three shallow plates: one filled with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs. Optionally season flour and eggs with additional salt, pepper, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 5: Form Croquettes

Using an ice cream scoop, take enough mashed potato mixture to form golf ball-sized portions. Flatten each ball in your hand and place a cheese cube inside. Wrap the potato around it to form a ball or cylinder shape. Place on a plate and repeat until all ingredients are used.

Step 6: Bread the Croquettes

Roll each croquette first in flour, then dip into beaten egg before coating thoroughly with breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs. Place them on a plate or tray as you prepare them; refrigerate for about an hour if desired.

Step 7: Fry Croquettes

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pot until it’s at least two inches deep over medium-high heat. Fry croquettes in batches of four or five depending on pot size. Roll them occasionally until golden brown all over. Transfer cooked croquettes to a towel-lined bowl to drain excess oil.

Step 8: Make Dip & Serve

For the dip, combine all reserved bacon pieces with sour cream, smoked paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; stir well. Serve warm croquettes alongside this flavorful dip!

How to Serve Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

Serving Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes can elevate any gathering or meal. These crispy delights are versatile and pair beautifully with various dips and sides, making them a hit at parties or family dinners.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream Dip: A creamy sour cream dip enhances the flavors of the croquettes.
• Spicy Aioli: For an extra kick, serve these croquettes with a spicy aioli made from garlic, lemon, and mayonnaise.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: The sweet and tangy notes of sweet chili sauce complement the savory croquettes perfectly.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer Platter: Arrange the croquettes alongside other finger foods like mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, or veggie sticks for a delightful spread.
• Game Day Snack Board: Include these croquettes on a game day snack board with chips, pretzels, and assorted cheeses.

With Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch that pairs well with the rich flavors of the croquettes.
• Coleslaw: Serve with a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the crispy potatoes.

How to Perfect Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

To achieve the best results when making Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Choose Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture that holds together better.
• Cool Before Frying: Allow the shaped croquettes to chill in the fridge for about an hour before frying to improve their structure.
• Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pot while frying. This ensures they cook evenly and get crispy all around.
• Test Oil Temperature: Use a small piece of bread to test if your oil is hot enough. It should brown in about 30 seconds.
• Experiment with Cheese: Mix different types of cheese for varied flavors. Mozzarella can add extra gooeyness!
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your potato mixture before forming croquettes. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes are delicious on their own but can be even better when paired with delightful side dishes. Here are some perfect accompaniments to enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread as a cheesy side that complements the flavors of your croquettes.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the croquettes.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers freshness to your plate.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring depth and earthiness to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair with crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: A small serving of macaroni and cheese provides an indulgent option that complements the cheesy flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor of your dish.

• Ignoring potato type: Using waxy potatoes instead of starchy ones like Russet can lead to a mushy texture. Stick with Russet potatoes for the best results.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you boil the potatoes too long, they will absorb excess water, making the mixture too soggy. Cook until fork-tender but not falling apart.
• Not chilling croquettes before frying: Skipping refrigeration can cause the croquettes to fall apart while frying. Chill them for at least an hour to help maintain their shape.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season each component can result in bland croquettes. Season the potato mixture, flour, and egg wash for enhanced flavor.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the croquettes will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Ensure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

• Place uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place croquettes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. This method may soften them, so it’s best for quick reheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add croquettes and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of bacon in Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes?

Yes! You can substitute regular bacon or turkey bacon based on your preference. Just ensure it’s cooked until crispy.

How do I make Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes gluten-free?

To make these croquettes gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs instead of regular all-purpose flour and Panko.

What dips pair well with Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes?

These croquettes are delicious with sour cream dip or even a spicy mustard sauce. Feel free to experiment with your favorite dips!

Can I prepare Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead and refrigerate or freeze them before frying. Just follow the storage instructions above.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Turkey Turkey Bacon Potato Croquettes are a delightful treat that combines crispy exteriors with cheesy goodness inside. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, these croquettes are versatile enough to customize with different cheeses or herbs according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!