I’ve been making fried mac n cheese balls for years, and they’re still a hit with my family. My kids love helping me shape the macaroni into balls and then coating them in breadcrumbs.
It’s a fun and easy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding different seasonings or herbs to the macaroni mixture.
I like to use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a rich and creamy flavor. The crispy exterior and gooey interior of the fried mac n cheese balls are irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
Plus, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for a novice cook like me. I’ve made it countless times, and it never fails to impress.
The key to making great fried mac n cheese balls is using the right type of breadcrumbs – I prefer panko breadcrumbs because they add a nice crunch without being too dense. You can also customize the recipe by adding different mix-ins, such as cooked bacon or diced ham, to give it an extra boost of flavor.
Another advantage of this recipe is that it’s relatively healthy compared to other fried foods – just be mindful of the amount of oil you use when frying them. I like to serve the fried mac n cheese balls with a side of marinara sauce or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
4.9 from 1183 votes
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these fried mac and cheese balls are the ultimate comfort food appetizer. Made with a rich, cheesy pasta filling coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection, they are perfect for parties or game day snacks.
1Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8 minutes.
2Drain the pasta and set it 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 to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, salt, pepper, and paprika.
8Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
9Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
10Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, at least 30 minutes.
11Once chilled, shape the mac and cheese into 1-inch balls and place them on a clean baking sheet.
12Return to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to set.
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 salt.
14Roll each mac and cheese ball first in the flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
15Press gently to adhere the coating.
16Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
17Fry the balls in batches, without crowding, until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch.
18Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. To ensure the balls hold their shape, chill the mac and cheese thoroughly before shaping and frying.
Watch Video Of How Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Works
These fried mac n cheese balls are always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner.
They’re easy to make ahead of time and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
One tip is to store any leftover fried mac n cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing you to easily reheat them whenever you need a snack.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
Q: What is the best type of cheese to use in fried mac n cheese balls?
A: I recommend using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor. Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor while mozzarella provides creaminess and texture.
Q: Can I make fried mac n cheese balls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the macaroni mixture up to a day in advance, but it’s best to assemble and fry them just before serving.
Q: What is the ideal temperature for frying fried mac n cheese balls?
A: For optimal results, heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
Q: How do I prevent the fried mac n cheese balls from sticking together?
A: Make sure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated on each ball before frying them, and also try dusting your hands with some flour or cornstarch when shaping them.
Q: Can I bake instead of frying these mac n cheese balls?
A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
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