Active Time

　　1 hour

　　Total Time

　　1 hour

　　These bite-size mashed potato croquettes are filled with smoked trout, mozzarella, Parmesan, and chives. Freshly fried, they’re just the kind of gooey, salty, and crispy finger food a cocktail party needs. But for easier hosting, the croquettes can be formed up to two days ahead of time before cooking.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 60

　　6 medium russet potatoes (about 2 1/2 lb. total), peeled, quartered

　　Kosher salt

　　1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

　　1 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1/4 cup)

　　1/4 cup chopped chives

　　2 Tbsp. prepared horseradish

　　1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

　　4 large eggs, lightly beaten, divided

　　8 oz. smoked trout, skin and any large pin bones removed, shredded

　　2 oz. low-moisture mozzarella, coarsely grated (about 1/2 cup)

　　2 cups panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)

　　Canola or vegetable oil (for frying; about 6 cups)

　　Lemon wedges (for serving)

　　

Step 1

Cover potatoes with cold salted water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium, covered, then reduce heat as needed to maintain a simmer until potatoes are tender, 20–30 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.

　　

Step 2

Mash warm potatoes with butter, then stir in Parmesan, chives, horseradish, pepper, 2 beaten eggs, and 1/2 tsp. salt until smooth. Fold in trout and mozzarella. Form potato mixture into about 60 round croquettes (about 2 Tbsp. each).

　　

Step 3

Place remaining 2 beaten eggs in a shallow bowl. Place panko in another shallow bowl. Dip 1 croquette into egg, letting excess drip off, then roll in panko to coat. Transfer to a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Repeat with remaining croquettes.

　　

Step 4

Pour oil into a large pot to a depth of 4". Heat over medium-high until it sizzles when you toss in a pinch of panko or a deep-fry thermometer registers 350°. Working in batches, fry croquettes, turning occasionally, until golden brown, 4–5 minutes per batch. Transfer to paper towels to drain; season with salt. Serve immediately with lemon wedges alongside.

　　

Step 5

Do Ahead: Croquettes can be formed and coated 2 days ahead. Cover and chill on baking sheet.