Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl. Sprinkle the smoked paprika onto the breadcrumbs and then drizzle on the oil. Mix together so the oil absorbs into all of the breadcrumbs.
100 g (2 cups) panko breadcrumbs, ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Take a heaped tablespoon of mashed potato and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of cheese in the middle and wrap the mashed potato around it. Shape into a cylinder shape.
450 g (2 cups) leftover mashed potato, 10 x 1.5cm cubes strong cheddar
Dip the croquette into the flour, then into the egg and finally into the breadcrumbs, ensuring the croquette is completely covered. Place on the baking tray and repeat with the rest of the mashed potato.
Ensure there is a little space between each of the croquettes on the tray, then place in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the croquettes are golden. Don't overcook or the cheese will start to seep out and the croquettes will flatten out a little.
Take out of the oven and leave to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Can I make them ahead?Yes - you can make up the croquettes, then cover and refrigerate them for up two days. Bake, uncovered, as per the baking instructions in the recipe card.Can I freeze them?Yes - although it's best to cook them first, then cool and freeze them. If you freeze them uncooked, then it's likely the potato would seep water during the defrosting stage. Reheat them from frozen at 180C/350F for 12-15 minutes until piping hot throughout.Can I fry them instead of baking them?Yes, heat 4 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large frying pan until hot. Add the croquettes and fry, turning regularly until golden brown. If you wanted to deep fry them, carefully lower them into a deep fat fryer that's been heated until very hot (180-185°C). Fry for about 3 minutes, until golden brown.Nutritional info is per croquette