Crispy Golden Cheese Fritters: Irresistibly Crunchy & Cheesy Bites
Looking for a snack that’s crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with cheesy goodness? These crispy golden cheese fritters are the ultimate comfort food and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving them for brunch, appetizers, or just a satisfying homemade treat. Quick to whip up, packed with flavor, and made with simple pantry ingredients, this recipe will be your go-to for crunchy satisfaction.
Let’s dive into how to make these addictive cheesy fritters and what makes them so special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate the golden cheese fritters pictured above, gather the following simple ingredients:
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups mashed or grated cooked potatoes
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon baking powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Base
Start by using cooled, mashed potatoes or grated cooked potatoes. Leftover mashed potatoes work great. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix in Cheeses and Onion
Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and chopped onion to the bowl. These cheeses offer both sharp flavor and a gooey, melty texture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Crack in the eggs and stir well until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive. You’re looking for a consistency that holds together when shaped into a ball or patty.
Step 5: Form the Fritters
Use a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop to portion the fritter batter. Gently form each into a slightly flattened shape using your hands.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if it’s ready, drop in a small piece of batter—it should sizzle immediately.
Step 7: Fry Until Golden
Working in batches, gently add the fritters to the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip once during cooking.
Step 8: Drain & Serve
Transfer the fried fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy fritters pair well with a variety of dipping sauces and accompaniments:
Garlic aioli
Spicy ketchup
Sour cream with herbs
Ranch dressing
Hot honey drizzle
Pickled vegetables or slaw
Serve them as a snack, side dish, or even the star of a vegetarian meal.
Variations to Try
Bacon Cheese Fritters
Add ½ cup cooked crumbled bacon for a savory, smoky twist.
Jalapeño Cheddar Fritters
Stir in chopped pickled or fresh jalapeños for a spicy version.
Broccoli Cheddar Fritters
Fold in 1 cup of steamed and chopped broccoli for a veggie-packed alternative.
Gluten-Free Version
Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of wheat flour.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead
You can mix the fritter batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
Refrigeration
Cooked fritters can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
Freezing
Freeze the uncooked shaped fritters on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before frying.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
Calories: 195
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sugar: 1g
Note: Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Fritters
Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping.
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor; don’t skip it.
Make sure oil is hot but not smoking—this ensures crispy exteriors without soaking up oil.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—this lowers oil temperature and leads to soggy fritters.
Drain thoroughly on paper towels or a wire rack for maximum crispiness.
Sprinkle with salt while still hot for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Place shaped fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use sweet potatoes?
Absolutely. Sweet potatoes will give them a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Great with smoky paprika or chipotle seasoning.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives the best mix of flavor and meltiness, but you can also try gouda, Monterey jack, or Swiss.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, until crispy and golden.
SEO Meta Description
Crispy golden cheese fritters with potatoes and herbs – perfect for snacking or sides. Easy homemade recipe with a crunchy outside and gooey cheesy center.
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