Description
These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, featuring creamy mac and cheese coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer, these indulgent bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For Mac and Cheese Balls:
- 6 cups prepared mac and cheese, cold
For Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For Coating:
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for serving
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: Shredded Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Mac and Cheese Balls: Roll cold mac and cheese into 2-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze Mac and Cheese Balls: Chill in the freezer for 1 hour to set.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow dishes with flour mixture, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread Mac and Cheese Balls: Dredge in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Chill Again: Freeze for 30 minutes to set the coating.
- Fry Mac and Cheese Balls: Deep fry in batches until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce. Garnish as desired.
Notes
- Ensure mac and cheese is cold for easier handling.
- Freezing at various stages helps maintain shape.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature.
- Experiment with seasonings and breadcrumbs for variety.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mac and cheese bite
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
