Description
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food, combining a crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center that’s hard to resist. These bite-sized delights are perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or any gathering where delicious snacks are a must. With a rich explosion of flavor and an enticing crunch, they’re sure to please everyone at your table. Easy to prepare and fun to customize, these bites will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish, press down slightly, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Once chilled, scoop out portions and roll into 1-inch balls. Dip each ball into beaten eggs and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry bites in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites (90g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg