Go Back

Bacon and Cheese Croquettes

These bacon and cheese croquettes offer a perfect balance of a crispy, golden exterior and a warm, gooey, cheesy interior. With smoky bacon bits and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with a salad.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Croquette Mixture
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour plus ½ cup more for coating later
  • 1 cup whole milk warmed
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar
  • 4 slices cooked bacon finely chopped
  • 1 small onion finely minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Breading Station
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or panko
Additional Ingredient
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
  2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about a minute to create a smooth roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of warmed milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens into a smooth white sauce (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 4 slices of finely chopped cooked bacon, 1 small minced onion, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until completely chilled and firm.
  6. Once chilled, shape the mixture into small cylinders or balls.
  7. Set up a breading station: first roll each piece in ½ cup of extra all-purpose flour, then dip in the 2 beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly in 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
  8. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer. Fry the croquettes in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  9. Drain the croquettes on paper towels and serve immediately with a choice of tangy dipping sauce or a crisp green salad.

Notes

For extra crispness, you can bake the croquettes at 400°F for about 20 minutes instead of frying. These versatile bites complement a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh green salad perfectly. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or substitute bacon with ham, prosciutto, or even sautéed mushrooms for a new twist. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in an oven to maintain their crunchy texture.