Description
These crispy, golden mac and cheese bites are the ultimate comfort food snack! Creamy, cheesy macaroni is coated in crunchy breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. Perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you need a delicious treat!
Ingredients
✅ For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 lb macaroni
- 16 oz sharp cheddar cheese (block or shredded)
- 1 ¼ cup milk (divided)
- ½ cup flour
- ¼ cup butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
✅ For Breading & Frying:
- 2 eggs
- 3 cups seasoned bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the macaroni: Boil macaroni until tender, then drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the cheese sauce: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir constantly until it turns a light brown color (making a roux).
3️⃣ Add milk & cheese: Pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking until thick. Add the cheese one handful at a time, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
4️⃣ Combine with pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.
5️⃣ Chill: Transfer to a container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until completely cold.
6️⃣ Form balls: Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Shape the chilled mac and cheese into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared pan.
7️⃣ Freeze: Place the mac and cheese balls in the freezer for at least 1 hour (overnight works best).
8️⃣ Prepare egg wash: In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the remaining ¼ cup of milk.
9️⃣ Bread the bites: Dip each frozen mac and cheese ball into the egg wash, then roll in bread crumbs, making sure they’re fully coated.
🔟 Heat oil: In a deep fryer or heavy skillet, heat oil to 320°F (fill a skillet ½ to ¾-inch deep with oil if pan-frying).
1️⃣1️⃣ Fry to perfection: Fry in small batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
1️⃣2️⃣ Serve immediately: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
🔥 Make it spicy – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick!
🧀 Try different cheeses – Mix in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
🍽 Dipping sauce ideas – Serve with marinara, ranch, or buffalo sauce.
🤤 Get ready to fall in love with these crispy, cheesy bites! 🧀✨