These Crispy Veggie Potato Sticks with Cheese Sauce are a healthier, tastier alternative to traditional chips. Packed with flavor and nutrients, these baked veggie sticks are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a rich, creamy homemade cheese sauce. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re a crowd-pleasing way to sneak more veggies into your diet without sacrificing crunch or flavor. Let’s make this better-than-chips masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, and loaded with nutrient-rich veggies.
- Irresistibly Crispy: The perfect texture for satisfying your chip cravings.
- Customizable: Use your favorite veggies or experiment with seasoning blends.
- Homemade Cheese Sauce: Creamy, cheesy, and far superior to store-bought dips.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Veggie Potato Sticks:
- 2 large russet potatoes (or sweet potatoes for a twist)
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or any plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Wash and scrub the potatoes, zucchini, and carrot. Cut them into thin, fry-like sticks (about 1/4-inch thick). Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for crispiness.
