Why Make This Recipe
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a fun and tasty treat that everyone will love. They combine the comfort of mac and cheese with a crispy outer layer, making them perfect for parties, snacks, or just a fun meal. These bites are easy to make and provide a delicious way to enjoy an old favorite. Plus, they are great for kids and adults alike!
How to Make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked macaroni, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the bites in batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm.
How to Serve Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
You can serve Fried Mac and Cheese Bites while they are warm and crispy. They pair well with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha sauce. Putting them on a platter makes them perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings. Enjoy them as a snack or appetizer and watch everyone come back for more!
How to Store Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
If you have leftovers, let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at low heat to get them crispy again, or you can warm them in the microwave, but they won’t be as crispy.
Tips to Make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
- Make sure your macaroni is well-drained to prevent soggy bites.
- You can add spices like garlic powder or paprika to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- If the mixture is too loose, add a bit more flour to help it hold shape.
- Fry in small batches to ensure the temperature of the oil stays consistent.
Variation
You can try different types of cheese for unique flavors. Mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses can give a fun twist. Additionally, you could add cooked bacon bits or chopped vegetables for a more hearty bite.
FAQs
1. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Just spray them with a little oil to help them crisp up.
2. Can I freeze Fried Mac and Cheese Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before frying. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can crush crackers, cornflakes, or even use panko for a crunchier texture.
Print
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites, perfect for parties or snacks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked macaroni, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the bites in batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm.
Notes
Pairs well with marinara or spicy sriracha sauce. If leftovers are available, store in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg