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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 30 reviews

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy, golden, and packed with cheesy goodness. Made with leftover homemade mac and cheese combined with Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheeses, then breaded and fried to perfection, these bites make a perfect appetizer or snack that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside and creamy inside.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Mixture

  • Approximately 5 cups leftover homemade mac and cheese (cold)
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Dredging Ingredients

  • 1 cup white all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3–4 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups seasoned panko breadcrumbs

Frying

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill a pan 3-4 inches deep)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Flaked sea salt
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to hold the formed balls as you work.
  2. Combine Mac and Cheese: Place the cold leftover mac and cheese into a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded Monterey Jack and Colby Jack cheeses on top.
  3. Mix Thoroughly: Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix the cheeses into the mac and cheese until fully combined and the mixture is uniform.
  4. Shape Balls: Scoop about 2-inch portions of the mixture and tightly roll them into balls to ensure they hold together during frying. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Prepare Dredging Stations: In one shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. In a second dish, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third dish, place the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Coat the Balls: Roll each mac and cheese ball first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing extra to drip off. Finally, roll thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs until well-coated. Return them to the baking sheet.
  7. Freeze: Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap or foil and freeze the coated balls for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the coating set and keeps the balls intact when frying.
  8. Heat Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 3-4 inches. Attach a candy or oil thermometer. Heat the oil over high heat until it reaches 360°F (182°C).
  9. Fry the Balls: Using a spider or tongs, gently lower 4-5 balls into the hot oil, careful not to overcrowd. Fry for about 4 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve an even golden brown and crispy crust. Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F (177-190°C) to prevent burning or undercooking.
  10. Drain and Garnish: Remove fried bites and place them on a cooling rack set on a lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. While still hot, sprinkle with flaked sea salt and chopped parsley if desired.
  11. Serve: Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer or snack while crispy and warm.

Notes

  • Freezing the balls before frying helps prevent them from falling apart in hot oil.
  • Make sure to maintain oil temperature for optimal frying results.
  • You can prepare these bites in advance and freeze them for longer storage.
  • Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for added flavor.
  • This recipe is best with homemade mac and cheese but can be adapted to store-bought versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried mac and cheese bites, mac and cheese appetizer, crispy mac and cheese balls, cheese bites, party snacks

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