These croquettes are small balls of chopped ham, shredded cheddar, egg and almond flour, rolled in grated Parmesan and fried until golden and crisp. The Parmesan coating browns into the crust, and the inside stays soft and cheesy. The mixture comes together in one bowl with no wheat flour. Prep is 10 minutes, frying takes 15, and the total is 25 minutes for 4 servings.
Save this recipe for later:
What Goes in the Mixture
The amounts are on the recipe card.
- Cooked ham (1 cup, finely chopped): the savory base. Kitchen scissors make the chopping quick.
- Shredded cheddar (1 cup): melts through the filling. Mozzarella, pepper jack or gouda also work.
- Egg (1 large): binds the mixture so the croquettes hold their shape.
- Almond flour (1/2 cup): the low-carb replacement for regular flour.
- Seasoning: garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon), onion powder (1/4 teaspoon), paprika (1/2 teaspoon), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Grated Parmesan (1/4 cup): the coating, which gives the crisp, golden outside.
- Oil for frying: the card suggests avocado or coconut oil.
Chopped green onions or fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can be mixed in for extra flavor.
Shaping and Frying
Mix the ham, cheddar, egg, almond flour and seasonings in a bowl with a spatula or your hands. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly sticky. Form it into small balls or patties about 1 inch across, then roll each one in the Parmesan until it is evenly coated.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. When it is shimmering, add the croquettes in batches, without crowding the pan. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy, then drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
The oil has to be hot enough before the croquettes go in, or they absorb too much oil and turn greasy. To test it, drop in a small piece of the mixture. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Baking Instead
To use less oil, bake them. Heat the oven to 400°F, set the croquettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown. They stay crisp.
Changes You Can Make
- Vegetables: finely chopped bell peppers, spinach or zucchini mixed into the croquettes.
- Cheese: mozzarella gives a gooier center, and pepper jack adds heat.
- Mini size: shape smaller balls for parties. They cook faster.
- Spicy: diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne in the mixture.
Dips and Sides
Serve them warm with a keto-friendly dipping sauce, such as sriracha or chipotle mayo, or with an avocado dip made by mashing ripe avocados with lime juice, garlic and a pinch of salt. A salad of mixed greens, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes with a light olive oil dressing is a fresh contrast, and celery, cucumber or bell pepper sticks are good for dipping. Sparkling water with lemon is a simple drink.
Storing Leftovers
Cool them completely and keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to bring the crispness back.
Nutrition per Serving
The card lists a serving as 1 croquette. It has about 250 calories, 20 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 0 grams of fiber, 0 grams of sugar and 15 grams of protein.
FAQ
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Bake them at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do you store leftovers?
Let them cool completely, then keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
What can replace the almond flour?
Coconut flour, but it is more absorbent. A general rule is about one-fourth the amount of coconut flour compared with almond flour.
Are they gluten-free?
Yes, because almond flour is used in place of wheat flour.
How do you make them spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mixture, or serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.
The Foodie Yummy Cookbook
12 reader-favorite recipes in one printable PDF. Enter your email and download it instantly.
Made it or loved it? Share this recipe
Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team
The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us
Keto Ham & Cheese Croquettes: A Deliciously Easy Recipe!
Ingredients
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 inch in diameter.
Roll each croquette in the grated Parmesan cheese to coat evenly.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the croquettes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the croquettes from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce or enjoy them plain.
Notes
For added flavor, mix in some chopped green onions or herbs like parsley or dill into the croquette mixture.
If you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 400°F, place the croquettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | 1 croquette |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 calories |
| Sugar Content | 0g |
| Sodium Content | varies |
| Fat Content | 20g |
| Saturated Fat Content | varies |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | varies |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 3g |
| Fiber Content | 0g |
| Protein Content | 15g |
| Cholesterol Content | varies |