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
- 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.
- Freeze Mac and Cheese Balls: Freeze the balls for 1 hour to set.
- Prepare Coating: Whisk flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a dish. Beat eggs in another dish. Place panko in a third dish.
- Bread Mac and Cheese Balls: Dredge in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with panko. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- Fry: Heat oil to 360°F (182°C) and fry balls in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- 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