Description
Deliciously crispy fried mac and cheese balls that are perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cooked mac and cheese, chilled and firm
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions
- If using freshly made mac and cheese, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm and cold. This is crucial for the balls to hold their shape.
- In a large bowl, mix the chilled mac and cheese with shredded cheddar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during frying.
- Prepare three shallow bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs mixed with milk in the second, and panko mixed with Parmesan, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Working one at a time, roll each ball in flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with panko mixture, pressing gently to help coating stick. Return to baking sheet.
- Freeze the breaded balls for another 15 minutes before frying. This extra step prevents them from falling apart in the hot oil.
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep skillet to 350°F. Use a thermometer to maintain proper temperature.
- Carefully add balls to hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy all over.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel-lined plates. Serve immediately while hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Ensure the mac and cheese is very chilled before forming the balls.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- For added flavor, consider using different spices in the breading.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg