I’m so excited to share this recipe with you all today. Fried mac and cheese balls are a staple in our household, and for good reason.
They’re easy to make, delicious, and can be enjoyed as a snack or as a side dish for any occasion. I first discovered this recipe on Pinterest, and it quickly became a favorite in our home.
My kids love helping me make them, and they’re always a hit at family gatherings. The best part is that they’re not too bad for you, considering they’re essentially a breaded and fried macaroni and cheese ball.
The macaroni and cheese is made with whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, which makes it a slightly healthier option than traditional mac and cheese recipes. I also love that this recipe is versatile – you can customize it to your liking with different seasonings or add-ins.
For example, you could add some diced ham or bacon for extra protein, or some chopped veggies for added nutrition. My kids prefer the plain version, but I love experimenting with new flavors.
Overall, this recipe is a winner in my book – it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
4.5 from 1982 votes
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these fried mac and cheese balls are a perfect appetizer or snack. Made with elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and a seasoned breadcrumb coating, they deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite.
1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
4Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture turns golden and bubbly.
5Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6Continue cooking over medium heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and smooth.
8Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated.
9Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a shallow dish and spread it evenly.
10Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm and easy to shape.
11Once chilled, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls.
12Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20 minutes until firm.
13Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
14Roll each chilled ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the seasoned panko mixture.
15Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
16Carefully add the coated balls in batches without crowding the pot.
17Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes per batch.
18Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried mac and cheese balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
19Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
For a healthier option, you can bake the breaded balls at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and heated through. Make sure the mac and cheese is thoroughly chilled before shaping to prevent the balls from falling apart during frying.
Watch Video Of How Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Works
Fried mac and cheese balls are always a good idea for any occasion. They work great for family gatherings because everyone loves the crunchy outside and gooey cheese inside.
I make them for holidays birthdays and even just for a fun weekend snack. To store leftovers keep them in the fridge in a sealed container for up to three days.
For reheating I recommend the oven or an air fryer to bring back the crunch. You can also serve them with different dips like spicy ranch or honey mustard to change things up.
These little bites are so versatile and always a crowd pleaser.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
1. What is the secret to making crispy fried mac and cheese balls?
The secret to making crispy fried mac and cheese balls is to use the right type of breadcrumbs. I prefer to use panko breadcrumbs because they have a lighter texture that helps the balls stay crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside. You can also try using gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
2. Can I use leftover macaroni and cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use leftover macaroni and cheese for this recipe! Just be sure to let it cool completely before mixing it with the egg and breadcrumbs. This will help prevent the mixture from becoming too soggy.
3. How do I keep my fried mac and cheese balls from sticking together?
To prevent your fried mac and cheese balls from sticking together, make sure to not overcrowd the pot when frying them. You can also try chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before forming into balls – this will help them hold their shape better.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake these instead of frying! Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. How do I store leftover fried mac and cheese balls?
To store leftover fried mac and cheese balls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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