Introduction
If you’re looking for a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed appetizer, Chorizo, Cheese, and Potato Croquettes with Avocado Aioli are the perfect choice! These golden-brown bites feature a savory mix of spicy chorizo, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, all encased in a crunchy coating. Paired with a smooth and zesty avocado aioli, these croquettes will impress at any gathering.
What Is This Recipe and Why You’ll Love It?
This Chorizo, Cheese, and Potato Croquettes with Avocado Aioli recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The rich and slightly spicy chorizo pairs beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese, creating a mouthwatering filling. Once fried to crispy perfection and dipped in velvety avocado aioli, each bite becomes an explosion of taste.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔ Crispy & Creamy: A perfect contrast of crunch and softness.
✔ Savory & Spicy: Chorizo brings a delicious heat balanced by the creamy filling.
✔ Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a stress-free recipe.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve as a snack, appetizer, or party food.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
Unlike traditional croquettes, which often feature plain potatoes, this recipe takes things to the next level by incorporating flavorful chorizo and cheese into the mix. The bold spiciness of the chorizo infuses into the potatoes, creating an irresistible combination. What truly sets these croquettes apart, however, is the avocado aioli – a creamy, garlicky, and citrusy dip that perfectly complements the crispy bites.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12 croquettes
- Yield: 12 croquettes
Key Features
- Cuisine: Spanish-inspired
- Course: Appetizer or snack
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate
- Dietary Considerations: Contains dairy and gluten
Ingredients
For the Croquettes:
- 4 chorizo sausages, finely diced
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda)
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (divided)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Avocado Aioli:
- 1 small avocado, peeled and pitted
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- Salt to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chorizo Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the diced chorizo for about 5 minutes until crispy.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring until the onions turn translucent.
- Season with ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Mix with Potatoes and Cheese
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, milk, one beaten egg, and shredded cheese.
- Stir in the cooked chorizo mixture until everything is well blended.
- Season to taste and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Shape and Coat the Croquettes
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized croquettes.
- Dip each croquette into the remaining beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
- Place on a tray and refrigerate for 10 more minutes.
Step 4: Fry the Croquettes
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
- Once hot (about 365°F or 185°C), fry the croquettes in batches, turning them for even browning.
- Cook for about 4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 5: Make the Avocado Aioli
- In a food processor, blend the avocado, mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, and salt until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl and serve alongside the croquettes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Croquette)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Pro Tips for Perfect Croquettes
✔ Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: This helps the mixture hold its shape when frying.
✔ Chill Before Frying: Letting the croquettes rest in the fridge prevents them from falling apart.
✔ Choose the Right Cheese: A good melting cheese like Gouda or Monterey Jack enhances the creamy texture.
✔ Fry at the Right Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the croquettes will burn before cooking through; if too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil.
✔ Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy crust, dip them in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape and coat them, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them and fry straight from frozen.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store them in a sealed container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. For the best texture and flavor, warm it up in the oven or air fryer.
3. Can I bake instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway for even crispiness.
4. What can I serve with these croquettes?
Aside from avocado aioli, try serving them with spicy mayo, salsa, or a yogurt-based dip.
5. Are there any substitutions for chorizo?
If you want a milder flavor, use Italian sausage or even diced mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
You’ll Also Love
Spicy Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Tacos – A quick and flavorful breakfast idea.
Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers – Perfect for spice lovers who enjoy cheesy appetizers.
Creamy Avocado Dip – A refreshing dip that pairs well with almost anything.
To prepare Chorizo, Cheese, and Potato Croquettes with Avocado Aioli, you’ll need the following kitchen tools and equipment:
Essential Tools for Making Croquettes
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For chopping chorizo, onions, and garlic.
- Mixing Bowls – To mix the mashed potatoes, cheese, and chorizo filling.
- Skillet or Frying Pan – To cook the chorizo mixture.
- Potato Masher or Fork – To mash the potatoes smoothly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurement.
- Food Processor (Optional) – To make the avocado aioli smoother.
- Whisk – To beat the eggs for coating.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon – For flipping and removing croquettes from oil.
- Deep Frying Pan or Dutch Oven – For deep-frying croquettes.
- Candy or Fry Thermometer – To maintain the correct oil temperature (365°F or 185°C).
- Baking Tray – To rest the croquettes before frying.
- Paper Towels – For draining excess oil after frying.
For the Avocado Aioli
- Small Bowl – To mix the aioli.
- Blender or Food Processor – For a smooth aioli texture.
Conclusion
These Chorizo, Cheese, and Potato Croquettes with Avocado Aioli are the ultimate crispy, cheesy, and savory appetizer. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a snack, or making them for a family dinner, they will surely be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of spicy chorizo, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese, complemented by a smooth avocado aioli, makes this a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Give it a try, and let us know how your croquettes turn out! Don’t forget to share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see your take on this delicious dish!