I’ve always loved the comfort of crispy, golden croquettes, but I wanted to give them a lighter and slightly healthier twist. That’s when I turned to sweet potatoes and my trusty air fryer. The combination brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes while keeping that irresistible crunch on the outside. Best of all, they’re just as satisfying as the deep-fried version—only without the heavy feeling afterward.
These sweet potato croquettes have quickly become a staple in my kitchen, especially for gatherings or as a quick snack. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, but honestly, they’re delicious even on their own. The creamy inside and crunchy outside make them a perfect little bite of comfort. Now, let me walk you through everything you need to create them at home.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show. Their natural sweetness, vibrant color, and creamy texture once mashed create a soft and flavorful base for the croquettes.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory punch that balances the sweetness of the potatoes. It also helps give structure to the mixture so the croquettes hold their shape.
Breadcrumbs: Essential for that golden, crunchy coating. They create the crispy exterior that makes croquettes so satisfying to bite into.
Eggs: They act as the glue in this recipe, binding everything together inside and helping the breadcrumbs stick on the outside.
Garlic Powder: A simple way to bring depth of flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the sweet potatoes.
Salt & Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the flavor of every ingredient. A pinch of each goes a long way.
Olive Oil Spray: Just a light mist before air frying helps the croquettes crisp up beautifully without drowning them in oil.
Ingredients List
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Croquettes
Step 1: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes. Boil or steam them until they’re tender enough to mash easily with a fork. Once cooked, drain them well to avoid excess water and mash until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, Parmesan cheese, one beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture holds together when shaped.
Step 3: Shape the Croquettes
Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small oval or round shapes—think about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate while you prepare the coating.
Step 4: Bread the Croquettes
Set up a breading station with one bowl of beaten egg and another with breadcrumbs. Dip each croquette into the egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step ensures that golden, crispy finish.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil, then arrange the croquettes in a single layer. Spray the tops with a little more olive oil. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden all over.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary so the croquettes crisp evenly.
- If your mixture feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the filling for extra flavor.
- Serve with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or even a simple sour cream dip.
FAQs
Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape and bread them ahead of time, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Can I freeze sweet potato croquettes?
Absolutely. Once shaped and breaded, place them on a tray to freeze individually. Transfer to a bag once frozen and cook straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling gives a smoother texture, but if you prefer a rustic style with more fiber, you can leave the skin on.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.