If you’re craving a snack that’s irresistibly crunchy, packed with flavor and perfect for sharing, this Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe checks all the boxes. Imagine golden potato sticks, seasoned just right and coated in a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, paired with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s lush and comforting. It’s a dish that effortlessly elevates humble potatoes into a crowd-pleasing treat, whether for game day, a cozy movie night, or an appetizer that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a role in building layers of texture and flavor, from the fragrant spices to the cheesy goodness that brings it all together.
- Potatoes (4 large): The foundation for our sticks; choose starchy potatoes for the best crisp.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the sticks crisp up beautifully while adding a subtle fruity note.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup plus 1 tablespoon): Adds a light coating to help the crumbs stick and thickens the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a smoky warmth to the potato sticks that makes each bite exciting.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds just a whisper of savory depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile of the coating.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten all the flavors.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): The crunchy crust’s star player, creating that satisfying bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a nutty, salty layer that crisps up to golden perfection.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Creates a rich base for the cheese sauce.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Ensures the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth without being heavy.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): The melty heart of the cheese sauce with bold flavor.
- Dijon mustard (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a slight tang that brightens the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Tray Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preparing your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures your potato sticks won’t stick and promotes even cooking, which is key to achieving that coveted crunch.
Step 2: Season Those Potato Sticks
Toss your peeled and thinly cut potato sticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning bath infuses each stick with flavor, ensuring every bite is as tasty as can be.
Step 3: Coat for Crunch
To get those perfectly crispy exteriors, lightly dust the potato sticks with flour. Then, coat them evenly with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. This combo crisps up beautifully, adding texture and a savory punch.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Place the coated potato sticks in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding so they bake evenly. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through to get an even golden crisp on all sides.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the potato sticks work their magic in the oven, start your cheese sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and stir in flour, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux. This step is essential because it thickens your sauce to creamy perfection.
Step 6: Whisk in Milk and Cheese
Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring as the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Lower the heat and blend in shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and the optional Dijon mustard. Stir until silky, melty, and smooth—this sauce is pure comfort in a bowl.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Once the potato sticks are golden and crispy, take them out of the oven and plate immediately. Serve them alongside your luscious cheese sauce for dipping, and prepare for everyone’s delighted “oohs” and “ahhs.”
How to Serve Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top of the cheese sauce or over the potato sticks to add a pop of vibrant color and fresh flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also elevate the visual appeal and hint at the spice inside.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a standalone snack but also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the cheese sauce. For a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken or roasted veggies on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe in individual small baskets lined with wax paper for a fun, casual vibe. Or arrange them on a large platter surrounded by bowls of different dipping sauces like spicy ketchup or garlic aioli to cater to all taste preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The potato sticks will stay crispy best when reheated properly, so keep reading for tips!
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked potato sticks before serving. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven to maintain crispness. The cheese sauce is best made fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month as well, though it may need whisking upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potato sticks on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to refresh that crisp texture. Warm the cheese sauce gently on the stovetop, stirring often to prevent it from separating. Avoid microwaving potatoes if you want to keep them crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes make a delicious alternative, bringing a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory spices and cheese sauce. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as sweet potatoes can cook faster.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese sauce?
Yes, you can make a vegan cheese sauce using plant-based butter and milk with nutritional yeast or vegan cheddar-style shreds. The consistency and flavor will differ slightly but can still be creamy and tasty.
Can I make these potato sticks crispy without baking?
While baking is the healthiest and easiest way to get them crispy, you can also deep-fry the coated potato sticks for an even crunchier texture. Just fry until golden, then drain on paper towels before serving.
How thin should I cut the potato sticks?
Cutting the potatoes into uniform thin sticks, about ¼ inch thick, helps them cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy exterior with a tender inside. Thicker sticks may take longer to cook through.
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
You can cut and season the potatoes a few hours in advance and keep them in cold water to prevent browning. Just dry them thoroughly before coating and baking. The cheese sauce is best prepared fresh but can be made ahead and gently reheated.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into these Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe—the combination of textures and flavors is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual gathering or simply treating yourself to an indulgent snack, they bring comfort and crunch in every bite. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into this deliciously cheesy adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks are thinly cut potatoes coated in a flavorful blend of spices, flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Served with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, this snack or side dish combines crunchy textures with a smooth, cheesy dip, perfect for sharing or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
For the Potato Sticks:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into thin sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Toss potato sticks with seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the thinly cut potato sticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Coat with flour and breadcrumb mixture: Lightly dust the seasoned potato sticks with all-purpose flour, then coat them thoroughly with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to add crispiness and flavor.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the coated potato sticks out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow even baking.
- Bake until crispy: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potato sticks for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides become golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the cheese sauce roux: While the potatoes bake, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux without lumps.
- Incorporate milk and thicken sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and continue stirring frequently until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes on medium heat.
- Add cheese and seasonings: Lower the heat to low, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and optional Dijon mustard. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Remove the crispy potato sticks from the oven and serve them hot alongside the warm cheese sauce for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegetarian alternative.
- For extra crispiness, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning, then dry thoroughly before coating.
- The Dijon mustard in the cheese sauce is optional but adds a nice tangy depth of flavor.
- Leftover cheese sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
