Fried Macaroni and Cheese Bites Recipe

These Fried Macaroni and Cheese Bites are the ultimate crispy comfort-food snack! Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese gets chilled, shaped into bite-sized balls, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and fried until golden and crunchy. They’re perfect for parties, game days, appetizers, or whenever you’re craving something extra cheesy.

Fried Macaroni and Cheese Bites Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 ¼ cups milk, divided
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until tender according to the package directions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Make the roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.
4. Add the milk: Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
5. Add the cheese: Add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until completely melted and smooth.
6. Mix in the macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is nicely coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Chill the mixture: Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a container or baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until completely chilled and firm.
8. Shape the bites: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out the chilled macaroni and cheese and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1 hour. This helps the bites hold their shape while frying.
10. Prepare the egg wash: Beat the eggs with the remaining ¼ cup milk in a shallow bowl until well combined.
11. Coat the bites: Dip each frozen macaroni and cheese ball into the egg mixture, then roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Make sure each bite is completely coated.
12. Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil to 320°F in a deep fryer. If using a skillet, add about ½ to ¾ inch of oil and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 320°F.
13. Fry until crispy: Carefully place the coated bites into the hot oil and fry for about 3–4 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and crispy.
14. Drain and serve: Transfer the fried bites to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly, then serve warm.

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