Dessert

Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

Name: Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup regular breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep); Cooked bacon bits (to mix into mac and cheese); Chopped jalapeños (for heat); Italian seasoning (to add to breadcrumb mixture); Mozzarella cubes (for extra cheese pull centers)

ByZoe Lane December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

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Introduction

Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort food appetizer, perfect for parties or game day. With a crunchy golden exterior and a creamy, cheesy center, these bites are irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover macaroni and cheese!

A close-up of golden brown fried mac and cheese balls stacked on a white plate with a crispy, crunchy textured outer layer sprinkled with small green herb flakes. One ball is broken open on top, showing gooey, creamy, yellow macaroni and cheese with soft elbow noodles inside. Next to the stack, there is a small clear glass bowl filled with bright red dipping sauce. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup regular breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Ensure your macaroni and cheese is completely chilled and firm to make rolling easier. If making fresh, prepare it the night before and refrigerate.
Step 2: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the chilled mac and cheese into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: flour in the first, whisked eggs and milk in the second, and a mixture of panko, regular breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
Step 4: Roll each mac and cheese ball first in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double bread.
Step 5: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F. Fry 4 to 5 balls at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Freeze the formed balls for 30 minutes before breading to make them easier to handle.
For a spicy twist, mix buffalo sauce into the mac and cheese before forming balls.
Substitute panko with crushed cornflakes for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs if panko is unavailable.
To bake instead of fry, spray balls with cooking spray and bake at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Add cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or a cube of mozzarella inside each ball for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover fried mac and cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Uncooked breaded balls freeze well for up to 2 months; fry them from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white plate with six round, golden-brown fried balls that have a crunchy, textured outer layer with small green herb bits sprinkled on top. One ball is broken open at the center top, showing a creamy, bright yellow macaroni and cheese filling with elbow pasta and melted cheese strands. In the background, there is a small clear glass cup filled with reddish ketchup, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Homemade mac and cheese works best if it’s thick and well chilled. Avoid using overly saucy mac and cheese to help the balls hold their shape.

Why are my balls falling apart?

This usually happens if the mac and cheese isn’t cold or firm enough. Ensure it’s fully chilled before forming, and consider adding a beaten egg to the mac and cheese mixture to help bind it.