These Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes with Crispy Golden Crust combine savory ground beef with a bold garlic and chili kick, wrapped in a perfectly crispy golden crust. I find them ideal for a spicy appetizer or snack that delivers flavor and crunch in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these croquettes pack a punch of bold, spicy flavors balanced by the freshness of parsley and the smoky warmth of paprika and cumin. The crispy panko crust adds a satisfying crunch, making every bite irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a flavorful snack any time.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
Vegetable oil, for frying
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add ground beef, red chilies, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until fully browned, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in parsley, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
Once cooled, shape the beef mixture into small, oval croquettes about 2 inches long.
Prepare a dredging station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Coat each croquette in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes each, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as spicy mayo or garlic aioli.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
I sometimes like to experiment with different spices or fillings. For example, adding a bit of grated cheese inside the croquettes adds a creamy surprise. You can also swap fresh chilies for chili powder or cayenne pepper for a different heat profile. Using sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika will give a milder smoky flavor. For a different protein, ground chicken or turkey works well too.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy. You can also freeze the uncooked croquettes before frying—just thaw before cooking.
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FAQs
How spicy are these croquettes?
The spice level depends on the amount and type of chilies used. I usually add 1-2 fresh red chilies, but I adjust according to my heat preference. Removing seeds can reduce the heat.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an option. Place the coated croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
I enjoy spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even a tangy yogurt-based sauce. Sweet chili sauce also pairs nicely with the bold flavors.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! I prepare the beef mixture and shape the croquettes ahead, then refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before breading and frying.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine, though they may not be as crispy. Crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers can also be good alternatives.
Conclusion
I find these spicy garlic beef croquettes a delicious way to spice up any snack or appetizer menu. The combination of juicy beef, bold spices, and a crunchy crust makes them a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual gathering or a cozy night in, they’re sure to satisfy cravings for something flavorful and crunchy. Give this recipe a try, and I’m confident it’ll become a favorite.
📖 Recipe:
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Spicy Garlic Beef Croquettes with Crispy Golden Crust
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
Savory ground beef croquettes infused with bold garlic and chili flavors, coated in a crispy golden panko crust, perfect as a spicy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1–2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ground beef, red chilies, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until fully browned, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in parsley, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Once cooled, shape the beef mixture into small, oval croquettes about 2 inches long.
- Prepare a dredging station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat each croquette in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry croquettes in batches for 3-4 minutes each, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as spicy mayo or garlic aioli.
Notes
You can adjust the chili amount to control spice level; removing seeds reduces heat.
For a milder smoky flavor, swap smoked paprika with sweet paprika.
Leftover croquettes can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep crust crispy.
Uncooked croquettes can be frozen; thaw before frying.
Baking option: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway, for a healthier alternative.
Alternative breadcrumbs include regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or crushed crackers.
Variations include adding grated cheese inside or using ground chicken or turkey instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying (also baking alternative)
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 croquettes)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
