These Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are crispy, golden bites of pure comfort! Creamy, cheesy macaroni gets chilled, rolled into balls, breaded, and fried to perfection for the ultimate party appetizer or comfort food snack. Crunchy on the outside and irresistibly gooey inside, they’re the kind of treat that’ll disappear the moment they hit the table.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for anyone who loves cheesy comfort food and bold, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re hosting game night, a holiday gathering, or just craving something indulgent, these fried mac and cheese bites are the perfect crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love It
- Crispy outside, creamy inside—pure texture perfection.
- Great for parties, potlucks, or late-night cravings.
- Easy to make ahead and fry when ready.
- A fun twist on everyone’s favorite comfort food!
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Frying:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the macaroni
- Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly pour in milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine and chill
- Mix the macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated. Spread into a baking dish and refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm enough to shape.
- Form the balls
- Scoop chilled mac and cheese into 1 ½-inch balls. Freeze for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Bread the balls
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry until golden
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry a few balls at a time for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve & enjoy
- Serve warm with marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli for dipping.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Baking sheet
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
- Freeze breaded (uncooked) balls for up to 2 months; fry directly from frozen.
FAQ
Q: Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: Can I use boxed mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled and firm before shaping.
Q: What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but try pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for variety.
Conclusion
These Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate indulgent snack—crispy, creamy, and absolutely addictive. Whether you serve them as a party appetizer or treat yourself after a long day, this Southern comfort food favorite is guaranteed to impress.
Enjoy !!
