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–+ servings

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Close-up of crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites on a wooden surface, one cut open revealing creamy macaroni inside. Shredded cheese is scattered nearby.
If you love mac and cheese, imagine it turned into crispy, golden bites of pure comfort food bliss. Fried mac & cheese bites are crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with melty cheese in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rest Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Pot

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 ¼ cups whole milk
  • 8 ounces cheddar cheese
  • 8 ounces monterey jack cheese
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni

Coating

  • ⅓ cup all purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  • Boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  • Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat, stir in flour, and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened (3-4 minutes).
  • Lower heat, add cheddar, Monterey Jack, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
  • Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
  • Transfer to a shallow dish, let cool to room temperature, and refrigerate until firm (at least 1 hour)
  • Whisk eggs and 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl.
  • Place panko breadcrumbs and flour in 2 separate bowls.
  • Roll chilled mac and cheese into 1-2 tablespoon-sized balls.
  • Dip each ball in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and lastly roll in breadcrumbs. Repeat the flour and egg dip twice before adding to the breadcrumbs for a thicker coating.
  • Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry bites in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning until golden and crispy.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  • Serve warm with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.