If you’re looking for the kind of snack that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy and savory inside, and truly impossible to stop nibbling, then you absolutely need to try these Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks. This delightful recipe takes velvety mashed potatoes and a duo of sharp cheeses, then transforms them—thanks to a few pantry staples—into the ultimate golden, crunchy bites. Whether you’re serving guests at a gathering or treating yourself to an afternoon pick-me-up, these sticks deliver comfort, flavor, and just a touch of Hungarian tradition. Get ready to make a batch of your new favorite snack!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks is easy to gather and truly essential to the end result. Each ingredient adds a layer of taste, texture, or a punch of color that makes these snacks pop. Here’s what you’ll use—and why you shouldn’t skip a thing:
- Russet potatoes: The backbone of the recipe; they mash up creamy and act as the perfect base for these sticks.
- All-purpose flour: This brings structure to the dough, giving your sticks that perfect, tender bite.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For big cheese flavor and that irresistible melt; sharp is key for depth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savoriness and a subtle salty kick that balances the other cheeses.
- Unsalted butter: Lends richness and helps the dough stay soft but bake up golden and crisp.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together; don’t skimp here.
- Garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth, making the sticks fragrant and even more crave-worthy.
- Paprika: A warm, earthy spice that brightens up the dough and connects these sticks to their Hungarian roots.
- Black pepper: A dash of heat to balance all the creamy, cheesy elements.
- Egg (beaten): For brushing on top; it gives your sticks an enviable sheen and helps the seeds stick.
- Caraway seeds or sesame seeds (optional): These little toppers add crunch and visual flair; caraway is a nod to classic Hungarian baking.
How to Make Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks
Step 1: Boil and Mash the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing your russet potatoes, then place them into a pot of salted water. Let them simmer until they’re absolutely fork-tender, usually 12 to 15 minutes. Once drained, mash the potatoes until silky smooth—no lumps! Give them a few minutes to cool off so you don’t melt the cheese when you mix it in next.
Step 2: Mix Together the Dough
When your potatoes are just warm, not hot, it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the flour, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, soft butter, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix with a spoon or your hands until the dough comes together and feels soft but not sticky. This is when your kitchen will start to smell amazing—the cheese and spices work together in the most heavenly way.
Step 3: Roll Out and Shape
Dust your work surface with a little flour and roll out the potato-cheese dough to about a quarter-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice it into sticks that are roughly 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. This step is great for getting the family involved—plus, don’t aim for perfection. Some rustic edges just add to the fun!
Step 4: Prep for Baking
Lay your cut sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving a little space between each for proper crisping. Grab your beaten egg and brush each stick—this makes them bake up glossy and much more appetizing. If you’re a fan of Hungarian flavors, sprinkle on caraway seeds. Prefer something a little milder? Use sesame seeds—or skip altogether!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your tray into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until your Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks are golden and irresistibly crisped at the edges. For those who crave extra crunch, tack on another 3 to 5 minutes—or even broil for a minute, but keep a close watch. Let them cool slightly after baking, then serve warm for the ultimate treat.
How to Serve Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of extra caraway or sesame seeds makes these sticks visually pop on a platter. For a professional touch, a light dusting of paprika or chopped fresh parsley brings vibrant color and another layer of excitement with every bite.
Side Dishes
Enjoy Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks with tangy dips like a little sour cream, spicy mustard, or even a homemade yogurt dip. These are dreamy set beside a fresh green salad, hearty soup, or as a companion to a charcuterie board for party snacking with extra flair.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform these sticks from snack to main attraction by arranging them in a tall glass or small basket lined with parchment—just like you’d serve fries or breadsticks. For an eye-catching appetizer, stack them log-cabin style on a rustic wood board, or arrange a wreath shape on a platter with a bowl of dip at the center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s never happened in my house!), simply let the sticks cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days and still taste fantastic.
Freezing
To save your hard work for another day, freeze baked—and fully cooled—potato cheese sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months, making last-minute snack cravings a breeze to satisfy.
Reheating
For that fresh-from-the-oven crispiness, reheat your Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes. If you’re in more of a hurry, a toaster oven also works like a charm. Avoid the microwave for reheating—though convenient, it tends to soften up the edges (and we all want that irresistible crunch!).
FAQs
Can I use a different type Snack
Russet potatoes work best because of their starch content, but Yukon Golds are also a great option if you want a naturally creamier texture and subtle buttery flavor in your Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks.
What cheese variations work well?
If you want to experiment, try mixing in smoked gouda, Swiss, or a touch of crumbled feta instead of cheddar for a twist on the classic. Just keep the total cheese amounts about the same to maintain the right texture.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. Make sure to pick one that’s formulated for baking, so the sticks stay tender and hold together nicely.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling, cutting, and baking your Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks fresh when you’re ready.
What’s the best way to keep them crispy for a party?
After baking, keep the sticks on a wire rack at room temperature. Warm them briefly in the oven just before serving—this ensures your guests get that signature crunch, even if you made them in advance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for something both cozy and crowd-pleasing, make a batch of Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks. They pair genuine comfort with a little culinary adventure, making them the kind of recipe you’ll want to share—and remake—again and again. Go ahead, give them a try; your kitchen (and everyone you feed) will thank you!
Print
Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 sticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks are a delicious savory snack that combines the flavors of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with fluffy mashed potatoes, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or as a tasty side dish.
Ingredients
Potato Cheese Sticks:
- 2 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (beaten, for brushing)
- Caraway seeds or sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Boil and Mash Potatoes: Boil cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain, mash until smooth, and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Dough: Mix mashed potatoes with flour, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, butter, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper until dough forms.
- Shape and Bake: Roll out dough, cut into strips, place on baking sheet, brush with egg, sprinkle with seeds, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes.
- Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, bake an additional 3–5 minutes or broil briefly at the end.
- Pair with sour cream or spicy mustard for dipping.
- Enhance with cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for depth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 125 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
