Description
These Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are a crispy and indulgent treat that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with a crunchy coating. Perfect for snacking or as a fun appetizer at parties, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mac and Cheese Balls:
- 4 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For Breading and Frying:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Form Mac and Cheese Balls: Scoop chilled mac and cheese into 2-inch balls, pressing firmly to hold together. Freeze on a baking sheet for 1 hour.
- Prepare Breading Station: Place flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and smoked paprika in a third dish.
- Coat the Balls: Roll each ball in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs mixture.
- Fry the Balls: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the balls in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
Notes
- For an extra cheesy center, add a cube of cheddar or mozzarella inside each ball before breading.
- Leftover balls can be reheated in an air fryer or oven for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
