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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 119 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 37 minutes
  • Yield: 20 bites 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these indulgent bites are perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer. Serve them with marinara sauce for the ultimate cheesy experience!


Ingredients

Units Scale

Mac and Cheese Balls:

  • 6 cups prepared mac and cheese, cold

Coating:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • vegetable oil, for frying
  • marinara sauce, for serving
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Optional: shredded parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Roll Mac and Cheese: Using clean hands, roll the prepared mac and cheese into large 2-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Freeze Mac and Cheese Balls: Freeze the balls for 1 hour to set.
  3. Prepare Coating: Whisk flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a dish. Beat eggs in another dish. Place panko in a third dish.
  4. Bread Mac and Cheese Balls: Dredge in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with panko. Freeze for 30 minutes.
  5. Fry: Heat oil to 360°F (182°C) and fry balls in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and serve hot with marinara sauce. Optional: Garnish with parsley and parmesan.

Notes

  • Make sure the prepared mac and cheese is cold before rolling into balls.
  • Freezing at different stages helps maintain shape.
  • Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature.
  • Experiment with seasonings and breadcrumbs for variety.
  • Serve hot and crispy for the best taste.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bite
  • Calories: 130
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg