Prepare the Potato Mixture:

1. In a large bowl, mash the cooked and cubed russet potatoes until smooth.
2. Add the salt, pepper, sour cream, green onions, and diced bacon.
3. Mix until well combined.

Form the Cheese Sticks:

1. Take a small amount of the potato mixture in your hands and flatten it slightly.
2. Place a strip of cheddar cheese in the center and fold the potato mixture around it to completely enclose the cheese.
3. Shape it into a stick or cylinder.
4. Repeat with the remaining potato mixture and cheese strips.

Coat the Sticks:

1. Prepare three separate bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with the cornstarch.
2. Roll each potato cheese stick in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each stick is fully coated.

Fry the Cheese Sticks:

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated potato cheese sticks in the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the cheese sticks from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve:

1. Serve the crispy potato cheese sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup.
2. Enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness!