Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, milk, cheese, ham, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.To prepare mashed sweet potatoes from scratch, add peeled sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water, simmer until tender, about 25 minutes. Drain well and mash with a potato masher.

Step 2

Take 2 tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture at a time and use your hands to shape into balls like meatballs. Alternatively, you can use an ice cream scoop to shape into even balls.

Step 3

Add breadcrumbs to a large bowl or shallow plate. Dip the mashed potato balls in the breadcrumbs and gently press the crumbs to coat.

Step 4

Arrange the mashed potato balls evenly in a parchment lined half sheet baking pan and transfer into the freezer. Freeze for 15-20 minutes to firm up (and help the croquettes hold their shape while cooking).

Step 5

You can cook the croquettes on the stove, in the oven, or in the air fryer.

Step 6

Serve warm with mayonnaise or your favorite dipping sauce.

Step 7

Add oil to a cooking pot to cover at least 2-inches high. Heat the oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until the oil is shimmering and sizzling hot.

Step 8

Deep fry the croquettes in batches (about 4-5 pieces each time) until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Turn the balls occasionally to get an even golden crust on all sides.

Step 9

Transfer the croquettes to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 10

Preheat oven to 375F.

Step 11

Place the croquettes evenly on a parchment paper lined half sheet baking pan. Spray with cooking oil spray to coat.

Step 12

Bake for 20 minutes until the crust becomes golden brown.

Step 13

Place the croquettes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray evenly with cooking oil spray. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to do this in batches.

Step 14

Air fry at 350F for 13-15 minutes until the crust becomes golden brown.