Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 30 reviews
  • Author: Angela
  • Prep Time: 0h 20m
  • Cook Time: 0h 10m
  • Total Time: 0h 30m
  • Yield: Approximately 20-24 bites
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. Made from chilled macaroni and cheese rolled into bite-sized balls, coated in a seasoned panko breadcrumb crust, and deep-fried to golden perfection, they make for a perfect appetizer or snack. Served with ranch or marinara sauce, they are crowd-pleasers that combine comfort food with a fun, crunchy twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Bites

  • 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For Serving (Optional)

  • Ranch sauce
  • Marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare Mac and Cheese: Make sure your macaroni and cheese is fully cooked and thoroughly chilled. Using cold mac and cheese helps the bites hold their shape when frying.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs combined with paprika, salt, and black pepper to add flavor and crunch.
  3. Form Mac and Cheese Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, take about a tablespoon of the cold macaroni and cheese and roll it tightly into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
  4. Bread the Bites: Roll each ball in the flour first, shaking off excess. Then dip it in the egg mixture to fully coat, followed by rolling it in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Prepare for Frying: Place the breaded mac and cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them ready for frying.
  6. Heat the Oil: Fill a deep frying pan or pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high to reach 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
  7. Fry the Bites: Carefully add the mac and cheese balls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  8. Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bites and transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  9. Serve: Serve the fried mac and cheese bites warm with ranch or marinara sauce for dipping if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Chilling the mac and cheese before forming the bites helps the mixture hold together during frying.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • You can prepare these bites ahead of time and freeze them; just fry directly from frozen, increasing frying time slightly.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for best results.
  • Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to your taste preferences.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://tastydailyeats.com/fried-mac-and-cheese-bites-recipe/