If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s perfectly crispy on the outside with gooey, cheesy goodness inside, potato cheese sticks are about to become your new obsession. These golden treats combine fluffy potato dough, melty cheddar cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating for a snack that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game-day spread, or enjoying a cozy family movie night, these cheese sticks are guaranteed to disappear fast!
What Are Potato Cheese Sticks?
Potato cheese sticks are a savory appetizer made from mashed potato dough wrapped around strips of cheddar cheese, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried (or baked) until crispy. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and comforting—everything you want in a crowd-pleasing snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Cheesy: That satisfying crunch with every bite, followed by a gooey cheese pull.
- Customizable: Swap cheeses, seasonings, or even the coating for endless variations.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands and picky eaters alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and fry or bake when ready to serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Potato Dough
- 3 russet potatoes, cooked and cubed
- ¼ cup diced bacon (optional but delicious)
- ¼ cup green onion, diced
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Filling
- 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into strips (about ¼ inch thick)
For the Coating
- Flour (for dredging)
- 1 egg, beaten
- ⅔ cup cornstarch
- 100 g panko breadcrumbs
For Frying or Baking
- 1 liter vegetable, canola, or peanut oil (for frying)
- Olive oil drizzle (for baking option)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Potato Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, mash together the cooked potatoes, bacon, green onion, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Keep the texture mostly smooth with some small chunks for bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese
Slice cheddar into strips about ¼ inch thick.
Step 3: Shape the Sticks
Scoop a spoonful of potato mixture, flatten it in your hand, and place a cheese strip in the center. Wrap the potato around the cheese and shape into sticks or small logs. Repeat until finished.
Step 4: Coat the Sticks
Set up three bowls: flour, beaten egg, and a mix of cornstarch + panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each potato stick in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg + breadcrumb step.
Cooking Methods
Deep Frying
- Heat oil to 350°F (180°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pot.
- Fry potato cheese sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
Baking (Lighter Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake 15–18 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
Tips for Success
- Use cold mashed potatoes for firmer dough.
- Chill shaped sticks in the fridge for 30 minutes before frying to keep them intact.
- Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Double-coat in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy shell.
- Serve hot—this is when the cheese pull magic happens!
How to Serve Potato Cheese Sticks
- Game Day Snack: Pair with sliders, wings, and dipping sauces.
- Party Platter: Arrange with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli.
- Movie Night Treat: Serve alongside popcorn and soda for a fun twist.
- Brunch Surprise: Add to a spread with eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until crispy again.
- Freezer Option: Freeze coated (uncooked) sticks on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry or bake straight from frozen.
Recipe Card
Potato Cheese Sticks
Crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible—these golden bites are perfect for snacking, parties, or family gatherings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Servings: 20 sticks
Calories: ~65 kcal each
Ingredients
- 3 russet potatoes, cooked & cubed
- ¼ cup bacon, diced
- ¼ cup green onion, diced
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into strips
- Flour, for dredging
- 1 egg, beaten
- ⅔ cup cornstarch
- 100 g panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Mash potatoes with bacon, onion, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap mixture around cheese strips to form sticks.
- Dredge in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko mix.
- Fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until golden, or bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite dips.