Description
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites: Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—these bite-sized cheesy treats are the ultimate snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Ranch or marinara for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and paprika until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Once chilled, scoop and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Prepare three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Coat each mac and cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat. Fry bites in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Chill the mac and cheese for 1–2 hours to help the bites hold their shape.
- Maintain oil temperature to ensure crispy, golden-brown coating.
- Serve with Ranch or marinara for dipping (optional).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: fried mac and cheese bites, crispy cheese balls, cheesy appetizer, party snack, kid-friendly appetizer