Easy Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes

Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside—these Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes are a delightful snack or appetizer! Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these golden bites of goodness will disappear in no time. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the crispy-cheesy perfection!

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Why You’ll Love These Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes

• Crispy & Golden: A crunchy coating gives way to a creamy, cheesy filling.
• Packed with Flavor: Savory mushrooms and gooey cheese make the perfect combination.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep make this a hassle-free recipe.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish.

Ingredients for Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness to the mushrooms.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps cook the mushrooms evenly.
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped – Use button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms for the best flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a delicious depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling.
• ½ cup whole milk – Creates a creamy texture.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into the filling.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For a fresh, herby touch.

For Breading & Frying:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – For the first coating layer.
• 2 eggs, beaten – Helps the breadcrumbs stick.
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular) – Creates a crispy, golden crust.
• Oil for frying – Use vegetable or canola oil for the best results.

Tools You’ll Need

• Skillet or frying pan – For cooking the mushrooms.
• Mixing bowls – To prepare the filling and breading.
• Baking sheet – To chill the croquettes before frying.
• Deep fryer or saucepan – For frying to golden perfection.
• Slotted spoon – For easy removal from the hot oil.

How to Make Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release moisture and become golden.
3. Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and mix well. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly add milk, stirring continuously until a thick mixture forms.
6. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley (if using) until smooth and creamy.
7. Transfer to a plate or bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

1. Once the filling is firm, take small portions and roll them into oval or ball shapes (about 1 ½ inches in size).
2. Place them on a baking sheet and return to the fridge for another 15 minutes to hold their shape.

Step 3: Bread the Croquettes

1. Prepare three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Flour
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs
2. Roll each croquette in flour, dip into egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
3. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coating.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the croquettes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce (garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy mayo work great!).
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for an Italian twist.
• Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy as a snack with hot tea or coffee.

Tips for the Best Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes

• Chill the Filling: A firm filling makes shaping easier and prevents the croquettes from falling apart.
• Double Bread for Extra Crunch: For a super crispy crust, dip the croquettes in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry straight from frozen, adding an extra minute.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these croquettes without frying?
A: Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

Q2: What cheese works best?
A: Mozzarella gives a gooey center, but cheddar or gouda also work well.

Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare and shape the croquettes ahead, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

Conclusion: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible!

These Easy Mushroom & Cheese Croquettes are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’ll be a hit with everyone. Give them a try, and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your culinary creations.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Croquette):
Calories: 160 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 210mg

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy croquettes, and don’t forget to share the joy with family and friends!

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