Terri Friends, I have a recipe today that will forever change how you think about mashed potatoes. Trust me, these Caramelized Apple and Sage Mashed Potato Croquettes are crispy, golden bites of fall goodness you didn’t know you needed. Creamy mashed potatoes, sweet caramelized apples, fragrant sage, and melty Gruyère cheese all come together in perfect harmony. And let me tell you about the Maple Dijon Dip. It is the tangy-sweet magic that ties the whole thing together. You will want to dip everything in it.
You know me, I am all about fresh, seasonal ingredients, and this recipe lets them shine. If you are in Georgia like I am, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to apples. There is nothing better than a trip to Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge or Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay to pick your own. Honeycrisp and Gala apples are my go-to for this recipe because they caramelize beautifully, bringing just the right amount of sweetness to these croquettes. If you are not near an orchard, a local farmer’s market will still have fantastic options.
And let’s talk sage for a second. I love using fresh sage in my kitchen, especially during the fall. If you have a sunny spot in your yard or even a little space for a pot on your porch, growing your own sage is easy. It is hardy, low-maintenance, and makes your homegrown meals feel extra special. Plus, it smells amazing when you pick it fresh and brings a little slice of autumn right to your garden.
Ingredients
For the Croquettes
2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work perfectly)
1 medium apple, finely diced (Honeycrisp or Gala are my favorites)
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup flour
Neutral oil for frying (like vegetable or canola)
For the Maple Dijon Dip
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Let’s Cook
Step 1: Caramelize the Apples
This is where the magic starts. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples, sprinkle on the brown sugar, and add a pinch of salt. Let them cook down until they are soft, golden, and caramelized. This should take about five to seven minutes. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing. Once they are done, set them aside to cool a bit.
Step 2: Mix It All Up
In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, those dreamy caramelized apples, chopped sage, Gruyère, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is evenly combined. Then shape the mixture into little golf ball-sized rounds and flatten them slightly into patties.
Step 3: Coat the Croquettes
Here is the fun (and slightly messy) part, the breading. Set up three bowls. One for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Dip each patty in the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Place them on a tray and pop them in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up. This step is key for that crispy finish.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat about half an inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, about two to three minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
Step 5: Whip Up the Maple Dijon Dip
While the croquettes cool slightly, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Taste it. You will want to eat it with a spoon, but save some for the croquettes.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Arrange the croquettes on a serving platter and place the Maple Dijon Dip in a cute little bowl on the side. Serve them warm and watch them disappear. These are a hit every single time.
Tips for Picking Apples in Georgia
If you are out apple-picking, look for firm, fragrant apples with no bruises. Honeycrisp apples are my absolute favorite because of their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor. Gala apples are a close second for their natural sweetness. If you can, head to a local orchard. It is such a fun fall activity, and you will get the freshest apples possible.
How to Grow Your Own Sage
Growing sage is easier than you think. It loves sunny spots and well-drained soil, and once it is established, it does not need much water. You can plant it in a container if you are short on space, and it will thrive indoors or outdoors. Sage is a perennial, so it will come back year after year. Fresh sage adds a gorgeous, earthy flavor to dishes like these croquettes, and it is so satisfying to cook with something you have grown yourself.
This recipe is one of my all-time favorites for fall gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you are craving something special. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out. I love hearing about your cooking adventures.