The Croquettes: A Perfect Blend of Potatoes, Bacon, and Cheese

The base of these croquettes is made from mashed potatoes, which are the foundation of the creamy, comforting filling. Boiling and mashing the potatoes with butter, salt, and pepper creates a rich and smooth mixture that’s ideal for holding all the flavors of the bacon and cheese. The buttery, creamy potatoes offer a fantastic contrast to the crispy, savory bacon bits mixed throughout, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Bacon adds a crispy and smoky element to the croquettes. For this recipe, Black Treacle bacon or British Ham is used, which gives the croquettes a slightly sweet, smoky taste that perfectly complements the richness of the potatoes. The bacon is grilled until crispy, then chopped finely and mixed with the mashed potatoes to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the croquettes.

To enhance the flavor and add a melty, gooey center, mozzarella cubes are inserted into the center of each croquette. When the croquettes are deep-fried, the mozzarella melts, creating a cheesy, savory surprise in the middle of every bite. The mozzarella complements the rich potatoes and the crispy bacon, providing a delicious contrast in textures.

The Coating: Crunchy and Golden

The coating of these croquettes plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture. The croquettes are dredged in flour, then dipped in whisked eggs, and finally rolled in panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for this recipe because they create a light, airy crunch that becomes golden brown and crispy when fried. This crunchy exterior provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, cheesy interior of the croquettes.

By using the flour, egg, and breadcrumb coating method, the croquettes hold their shape during frying, ensuring that they don’t fall apart. The panko breadcrumbs give the croquettes their signature crunch, which is one of the most important aspects of this dish. The crispy outer shell helps balance the rich, creamy filling, making each bite an explosion of texture and flavor.

The Red Pepper Sauce: Smoky and Savory

No croquette is complete without a great dipping sauce, and the roasted red pepper sauce is the perfect complement to these savory, cheesy bites. The sauce is made by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil until they become soft and slightly caramelized, adding a depth of flavor. The piquillo peppers contribute a sweet and smoky flavor that enhances the richness of the croquettes.

After cooking the peppers with garlic and onions, white wine is added to deglaze the pan, creating a tangy base for the sauce. A pinch of smoked paprika is then stirred in, giving the sauce its signature smoky flavor. Finally, the sauce is simmered briefly with a splash of water before being blended until smooth, resulting in a velvety, flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with the crispy croquettes.

This smoky red pepper sauce adds complexity to the croquettes, making each bite even more delicious. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky, and it enhances the flavor of the croquettes without overwhelming them. The sauce can be served alongside the croquettes or drizzled over them, adding an extra layer of richness.

Frying the Croquettes: Golden Perfection

While the croquettes can be baked or air-fried for a healthier version, deep frying is the traditional method for achieving the ultimate golden and crispy exterior. Frying the croquettes at 170°C (340°F) for about 4–5 minutes ensures they become perfectly crispy while maintaining their soft, cheesy interior.

When frying, it’s important to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that each croquette has enough space to cook evenly, resulting in a crisp, golden-brown coating on all sides. Once fried, the croquettes are placed on paper towels to drain off any excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy and light.

If you prefer a healthier alternative, baking or air frying the croquettes can produce a similar effect, though the exterior might not be as crispy as when deep-fried. However, both methods are effective for achieving a satisfying, crispy snack without the excess oil.

Serving the Croquettes: A Delicious Tapas-Style Dish

These Bacon & Potato Croquettes are perfect for serving as a tapas-style appetizer or snack at a party. The small, bite-sized portions make them easy to share and perfect for grazing. Once the croquettes are fried and golden, they are served on a platter with a drizzle of the roasted red pepper sauce, which adds vibrant color and flavor to the dish. You can garnish the croquettes with freshly grated pecorino cheese and a sprinkle of chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an extra burst of flavor and color.

These croquettes pair well with other small plates or party foods, such as olives, cheese boards, or charcuterie. They can also be served as a side dish to complement a larger meal, adding a crispy, cheesy element to any spread. The combination of flavors—savory bacon, creamy potatoes, melted mozzarella, and smoky sauce—makes these croquettes a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Customizing the Recipe: Variations and Tips

While the classic version of these croquettes features crispy bacon and mozzarella, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences. For a vegetarian version, you could substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. The creamy potato mixture will still work beautifully, and the mozzarella will provide the same gooey texture.

If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to experiment with alternatives such as cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different herbs in the filling or sauce, such as rosemary or thyme, for added depth.

For a slightly healthier version, you could opt to air fry the croquettes or bake them at a high temperature, brushing them with olive oil to help them crisp up without frying in oil. Though the texture may vary, the croquettes will still have a delicious flavor and satisfying crunch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bacon & Potato Croquettes with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce are a decadent and irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. These crispy, cheesy bites are packed with flavor, from the creamy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon to the gooey mozzarella center. Paired with the smoky, tangy roasted red pepper sauce, they create a mouthwatering combination that will impress guests at any gathering or event.

Whether served as part of a tapas-style spread, alongside other small plates, or as a hearty snack, these croquettes are sure to be a crowd favorite. The combination of creamy, savory, and smoky elements makes these croquettes a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich, comforting flavors and crispy texture, Bacon & Potato Croquettes are the perfect snack to elevate any meal.