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Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
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Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are crispy, golden bites with a creamy, gooey cheese center wrapped in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party finger food, these easy-to-make bites elevate classic macaroni and cheese into an irresistible treat loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: garlic powder, paprika
  • 1 egg (for cheese sauce and breading)

Breading & Frying

  • 1 ½ cups bread crumbs (panko or regular)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk while stirring continuously until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or paprika. Stir in one beaten egg to help bind the sauce.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Allow the mixture to cool completely—refrigerate if needed—to firm up for shaping.
  4. Shape the balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mac and cheese mixture into bite-sized balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bread the balls: Set up a breading station with beaten eggs in one bowl and breadcrumbs in another. Dip each ball first into the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly. For extra crispiness, dip again in egg and breadcrumbs.
  6. Fry to golden perfection: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Notes

  • Chill the mac and cheese mixture before shaping to help the balls hold together during frying.
  • Use a small scoop to make evenly sized balls for consistent cooking.
  • Double breading improves crispiness and sturdiness.
  • Maintain stable oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy results.
  • Drain fried balls well on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried mac and cheese balls, appetizer, party snack, crispy mac and cheese bites, comfort food, cheesy snack

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/fried-mac-and-cheese-balls/