Fried Mac and Cheese Bites: Your New Favorite Snack!
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate party snack and cheesy comfort food, featuring crispy panko crusted cheese balls filled with creamy mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chill)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (active)
- Yield: 4–6 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups prepared mac and cheese (chilled and firm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra meltiness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Scoop cold mac and cheese into balls and gently press.
- Place the mac balls on a tray and freeze for 1 hour.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil to 350°F and fry bites in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
- Serve hot with ranch, spicy aioli, or your favorite dip.
Notes
- Ensure the mac and cheese is chilled and firm for easier shaping.
- Freezing the bites helps maintain their shape during frying.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: ~270
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: ~15g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~8g
- Cholesterol: ~70mg
Find it online: https://www.homeydishes.com/fried-mac-and-cheese-bites-recipe/