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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites with Sweet Basil Marinara

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites with Sweet Basil Marinara Bliss

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites with Sweet Basil Marinara are a deliciously crispy twist on a classic comfort food.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese
  • 1 cup Elbow Macaroni
  • 2 cups Chicken Stock Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1 cup Evaporated Milk Regular milk can be used
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded) Gouda can be mixed in
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) Monterey Jack can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Cayenne pepper can be used for more heat
  • to taste Black Pepper & Salt Adjust to personal taste
For the Marinara Sauce
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes (canned, drained and blended) Crushed tomatoes can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Honey or agave can be substituted
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Any light oil will suffice
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Fresh basil can be substituted at a 3:1 ratio
For Breading and Frying
  • 1 cup All Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works too
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Optional but recommended
  • 2 large Eggs Use flax seeds with water for vegan option
  • 1 tablespoon Water To thin out egg mixture
  • 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Parchment paper
  • Shallow bowls

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, combine elbow macaroni, chicken stock, and evaporated milk, bringing it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and absorbs the liquid.
  2. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted. Season with paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste.
  3. Spread the mac and cheese mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm enough to cut into squares.
  4. In a blender, combine the drained diced tomatoes and blend until desired consistency. Simmer blended tomatoes in a saucepan with brown sugar, olive oil, dried basil, and salt for 8-10 minutes until thickened.
  5. Prepare your breading station with all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch, beaten eggs with water, and panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and salt.
  6. Cut the chilled mac and cheese into bite-sized pieces. Coat each piece in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg wash, and roll it in panko breadcrumbs.
  7. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the breaded mac and cheese bites for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve the Fried Mac and Cheese Bites with the sweet basil marinara dipping sauce on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 3bitesCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Ensure the mac and cheese is thoroughly chilled before frying for best results.

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