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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 106 reviews

Delightfully crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a perfect comfort food snack or appetizer. Made with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, then coated with breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection. Optional additions like jalapeños and fresh herbs add a subtle kick and freshness, making these bites irresistible for parties or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped jalapeños (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh herbs (chives, parsley, thyme), chopped (optional)

Coating and Frying

  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • About 3 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Begin by boiling 2 cups of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside—this forms the base for the creamy cheese filling.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly add 1 1/2 cups of milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese along with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder until smooth and creamy. If using, add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, and fresh herbs for added flavor.
  3. Combine Macaroni and Cheese: Mix the drained macaroni into the warm cheese sauce until every piece is evenly coated. Spread the mixture into a shallow pan, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until firm enough to shape into bites.
  4. Form the Bites: Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the mac and cheese mixture using a spoon or cookie scoop. Roll each portion firmly into bite-sized balls to ensure they hold together during frying.
  5. Coat the Bites: Set up a breading station with a bowl of beaten eggs and a bowl of breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese ball first into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly for a crispy outer crust.
  6. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat about 3 cups of vegetable or canola oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat (around 350°F to 375°F). Fry the coated bites in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they are deep golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crispier coating, but panko can also be a great substitute.
  • Ensure the mac and cheese mixture is well chilled and firm before forming the bites, so they hold their shape during frying.
  • Adjust seasoning in the cheese sauce to taste before refrigerating.
  • Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying to avoid imparting unwanted flavors.
  • For a milder version, omit the jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
  • The bites can be baked instead of fried for a healthier option, although frying yields the best crispiness.
  • These bites can be made ahead and frozen before frying; fry directly from frozen, increasing fry time slightly.

Keywords: mac and cheese bites, fried mac and cheese, appetizer recipes, cheese bites, party snacks, comfort food

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