Rocky's Flavorful Ham Croquettes

These ham croquettes are crispy on the outside and packed with savory, cheesy goodness inside. Perfect as a tasty snack or appetizer, they’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering.

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TIME45 min

SERVINGS4

RATING4.5 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds leftover baked ham 4 eggs, divided 3 tablespoons butter ½ cup fresh chopped garlic ¼ cup dried minced onion 3 cups Italian-style bread crumbs 2 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese ½ cup brown sugar ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 tablespoon water 2 cups extra-virgin olive oil

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by grinding the ham into a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, beat three eggs until smooth. Next, melt some butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and dried onion, cooking and stirring occasionally until they're nicely browned, about five minutes. Pour this flavorful mixture into the bowl with the ham, then add the beaten eggs, one cup of breadcrumbs, the cheddar cheese, brown sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix everything together by hand until well combined, then shape the mixture into about 15 to 18 medium-sized croquettes or little rectangular shapes.

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Step 2

In another bowl, beat the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water. Pour the last two cups of breadcrumbs onto a large plate or shallow dish. Dip each croquette into the egg wash, then roll it around in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.

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Step 3

Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning occasionally, until they're golden brown all over—this should take around 10 minutes total. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil before serving.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use day-old bread crumbs for extra crunch on the outside.
- Chill the shaped croquettes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.

Why you’ll love it

These croquettes are packed with savory ham and a creamy filling that melts in your mouth. They offer a perfect balance of crispy outside and tender inside, making them a delightful snack or appetizer for any occasion.

Serving ideas

Serve these croquettes hot with a side of tangy mustard or a fresh green salad. They also pair well with a light dipping sauce like aioli or a spicy tomato chutney to add an extra kick.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness instead of using a microwave.