Description
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites transform leftover mac and cheese into irresistible bite-sized snacks. Coated with a seasoned panko breadcrumb crust and deep-fried to golden perfection, they are perfect for parties, appetizers, or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Base
- Leftover homemade mac and cheese (about 3 cups)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack Cheese
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup white all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
Egg Wash and Coating
- 3-4 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups seasoned panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, enough for deep frying (about 4 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to set the mac and cheese bites on. This prevents sticking and allows them to firm up before frying.
- Form the mac and cheese bites: Take the leftover mac and cheese, mixing in the shredded Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheeses until well combined. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place each formed bite onto the lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to help them hold their shape during frying.
- Set up breading stations: In one bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the bites: Dredge each mac and cheese ball first in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each bite is well-coated for a crispy crust.
- Heat the oil: In a deep saucepan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the bites for even frying.
- Fry the bites: Carefully lower the breaded mac and cheese bites into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the fried mac and cheese bites warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Notes
- If you don’t have leftover mac and cheese, prepare homemade mac and cheese in advance and chill it until firm.
- Chilling the bites before frying helps them hold their shape and reduces the risk of them falling apart in the oil.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs for a less crispy texture.
- Ensure the oil stays at consistent temperature for perfect frying results.
- Leftover bites can be reheated in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to regain crispiness.
