Potato Croquettes with Beef (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Mashed Potato Base

01 - 2 cups mashed potatoes, cooled (made from about 1 ½ lbs potatoes)
02 - 1 egg yolk
03 - ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
04 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Beef Filling

05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - ½ pound ground beef
07 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
08 - 1 garlic clove, minced
09 - ½ teaspoon paprika
10 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
11 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Breading

12 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
13 - 2 eggs, beaten
14 - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
15 - Vegetable oil for frying

# Instructions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg yolk, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and refrigerate for about 15–20 minutes to firm up.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground beef, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly. Allow the filling to cool.
03 - Take about 2 tablespoons of the chilled mashed potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place 1 teaspoon of beef filling in the center and wrap the potato mixture around it to form an oval or round croquette. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
04 - Roll each croquette in flour, dip it in beaten egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a tray.
05 - Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 175°C (350°F). Fry the croquettes in batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
06 - Serve the croquettes warm with ketchup, aioli, or a yogurt dip. They are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.