Description
Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls – the ultimate cheesy, bite-sized snack! With a crunchy golden exterior and a gooey, melty center, these easy-to-make appetizers are perfect for parties, game nights, or indulgent treats. Try them today!
Ingredients
Scale
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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
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Breading & Frying:
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
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Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until fully melted.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
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Chill the Mixture:
- Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, spread evenly, and let cool to room temperature.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
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Form the Balls:
- Scoop out portions of chilled mac and cheese and roll into balls.
- Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
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Coat the Balls:
- Dip each ball into whisked eggs, then roll in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- (Optional: Double coat for extra crispiness.)
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Fry to Perfection:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain & Serve:
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère, Gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free macaroni, flour, and breadcrumbs.
- Baked Alternative: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese balls, fried mac and cheese, crispy cheese snacks, party appetizers, cheesy comfort food