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Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 51 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding chilling time)
  • Yield: 20 to 24 mac and cheese balls 1x

Description

These Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are an irresistible appetizer featuring creamy, cheesy macaroni nestled inside a crunchy, golden breadcrumb coating. Perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a comforting, bite-sized treat, they offer a delightful crunch outside with molten cheese inside. Easy to prepare using leftover mac and cheese, these balls can be deep-fried or air-fried for a lighter option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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)

Optional Extras

  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Chill the Mac: Ensure your macaroni and cheese is completely cold and firm by refrigerating it overnight or until set. This step is crucial to help the balls hold their shape during frying.
  2. Form the Balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the chilled mac and cheese into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll them smoothly between your palms and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This recipe yields about 20 to 24 balls.
  3. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with a whisked mixture of eggs and milk, and third with combined panko, regular breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This setup ensures an even and crispy coating.
  4. Bread the Balls: Roll each mac and cheese ball in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere well. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more (double breading). Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet.
  5. Heat Oil: Heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature is steady.
  6. Fry Until Golden: Fry 4 to 5 balls at a time to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the balls are deep golden brown all over. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying to avoid greasy balls.
  • Freezing the formed balls for 30 minutes before breading makes handling easier.
  • If you want a lighter version, bake them at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Uncooked, breaded balls can be frozen for up to 2 months and fried directly from frozen (add 1-2 minutes to cook time).
  • Adding a beaten egg to the macaroni and cheese mixture can help with binding if it is too loose.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time overnight recommended)
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: fried mac and cheese balls, crispy mac and cheese bites, party appetizers, game day snacks, comfort food, cheesy appetizers

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Find it online: https://cookingwithzoe.com/crispy-fried-mac-and-cheese-balls-recipe/