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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 79 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 0h 30m
  • Cook Time: 0h 10m
  • Total Time: 0h 40m
  • Yield: Approximately 20-24 bites
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy, golden, and cheesy morsels perfect as a snack or appetizer. Made from chilled macaroni and cheese balls coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and deep-fried to perfection, they offer a delightful crunchy exterior with a creamy, cheesy center. Easy to prepare and irresistible, they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.


Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Cheese Bites

  • 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying


Instructions

  1. Chill the Mac and Cheese: Begin by ensuring the cooked macaroni and cheese has been sufficiently chilled; this will help it hold its shape during shaping and frying.
  2. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set this mixture aside.
  3. Set up Dredging Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture for coating.
  4. Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a small ice-cream scoop, shape the chilled macaroni and cheese into 1-inch diameter balls, pressing firmly to hold together.
  5. Coat the Balls: Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C), ensuring you have enough oil to fully submerge the bites for even frying.
  7. Fry the Bites: Carefully drop a few balls at a time into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  8. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried mac and cheese bites with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  9. Serve: Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara or ranch for added flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure the macaroni and cheese is well chilled so that the bites hold their shape during frying.
  • You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and refrigerate overnight for convenience.
  • For extra crispiness, double coat the bites by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for best frying results.
  • Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.