Name: Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls – The Ultimate Comfort Food Snack!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Mac and Cheese Base: 2 cups cooked macaroni; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup cream cheese; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Breading & Frying: 2 eggs, whisked; 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese and crispy, crunchy snacks, then these fried mac and cheese balls are about to become your new favorite indulgence. They take the classic comfort food and transform it into bite-sized, golden-fried perfection. Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or simply as a treat for yourself, these crispy delights are sure to impress. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey, cheesy interior makes every bite irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Cooked macaroni
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Cream cheese
Butter
All-purpose flour
Whole milk
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Eggs
Panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil

Directions

Prepare the Mac and Cheese: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until fully melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Let it cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Form the Balls: Once chilled, use a spoon or ice cream scoop to portion out small amounts of the mac and cheese mixture. Roll into balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Coat the Balls: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Repeat for a thicker, crunchier coating if desired.
Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated mac and cheese balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried balls from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a spicy version.
Different Cheeses: Try using Gruyère, Gouda, or pepper jack cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free macaroni, flour, and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
Baked Alternative: Instead of frying, bake the coated balls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Servings: 12-15 mac and cheese balls

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked, coated mac and cheese balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep the mac and cheese balls from falling apart?

Chilling the mixture thoroughly before shaping and breading helps the balls stay firm. Double-coating them in egg and breadcrumbs also helps maintain their structure.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can form and bread the balls ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to fry.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, work best.

Can I use boxed mac and cheese?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, boxed mac and cheese can be used as a shortcut. Just make sure it’s thick and creamy.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Ranch, marinara, sriracha mayo, or even honey mustard pair well with these crispy treats.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, and double-coat them for an extra crunch.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

What’s the best way to freeze them?

Flash freeze the formed and coated balls on a tray before transferring them to a freezer bag.

Can I add bacon?

Yes! Crispy bacon bits mixed into the mac and cheese add extra flavor and crunch.

Do I have to use eggs for breading?

If you’re avoiding eggs, try using buttermilk or a flaxseed mixture as a binding agent.

Conclusion

Crispy fried mac and cheese balls are the perfect combination of comfort food and party snack. With their golden, crunchy exterior and creamy, cheesy center, they are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, game-day snack, or indulgent treat, these bite-sized delights will satisfy all your cravings. Try them today and enjoy the ultimate cheesy, crunchy goodness!

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