Ham and Cheese Croquettes

Ham and Cheese Croquettes are a classic comfort food—crispy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Originating from European cuisine, especially popular in Spain and France, these golden bites combine a rich béchamel sauce with flavorful ham and melted cheese.

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making them from scratch.

🧀 What Are Ham and Cheese Croquettes?

Croquettes are small rolls made from a thick, creamy mixture (usually based on a béchamel sauce), mixed with ingredients like ham, cheese, chicken, or vegetables. The mixture is shaped, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until perfectly crispy.

📝 Ingredients

For the filling:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (warm)
1 cup finely diced ham
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

For coating:

2 eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup flour

For frying:

Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Creamy Base (Béchamel)

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes. This forms a roux, which will thicken your sauce.

Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.

2. Add Ham and Cheese

Once your béchamel is thick and smooth:

Stir in the diced ham and shredded cheese
Mix until the cheese is fully melted
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg

The mixture should be very thick—almost like a soft dough.

3. Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish and spread it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until completely firm.

This step is crucial for shaping the croquettes later.