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Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

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These crispy fried mac and cheese bites feature a crunchy breadcrumb coating with a creamy, cheesy center, perfect for a cozy snack or party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (700 g) cooked macaroni and cheese, homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, about 2 cups (480 ml) for frying

Instructions

  1. If using leftover mac and cheese, stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. If making from scratch, cook 8 oz elbow macaroni and mix with 2 cups cheese sauce, then cool completely. Chill mac and cheese for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Portion chilled mac and cheese into 1 1/2 inch balls using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Add extra cheese or flour if mixture is too loose.
  3. Set up dredging stations: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Roll each ball in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
  5. Refrigerate coated bites on baking sheet for 30 minutes to set coating.
  6. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain temperature.
  7. Fry bites in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Cheese inside should be melted.
  8. Remove bites with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or cooling rack. Let rest 1-2 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve warm with dipping sauces like spicy mayo, ranch, or marinara.

Notes

Chill mac and cheese well before shaping to prevent bites from falling apart. Double breadcrumb coating adds extra crunch. Maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 360°F for best results. Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Rest bites briefly after frying to keep crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese bites, crispy fried snack, comfort food, cheesy bites, party appetizer, easy snack

Find it online: https://larameals.com/crispy-fried-mac-and-cheese-bites-recipe-easy-perfect-cozy-snack-ideas/