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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Irresistible Fried Mac and Cheese Bites for Ultimate Comfort

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a crispy, indulgent appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Mac & Cheese
  • 2 cups Macaroni Cook until tender.
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Substitute with Monterey Jack for milder taste.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk is preferred.
  • ¼ cup Flour All-purpose flour works best.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Unsalted butter recommended.
For the Coating
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten, can substitute with flax egg.
  • 1 cup Seasoned Bread Crumbs Panko for extra crispiness.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Adjust based on the cheese.
For Frying
  • 2 inches Vegetable Oil Canola or peanut oil is ideal.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large pan
  • Colander
  • Baking Dish
  • Parchment paper
  • deep fryer
  • Thermometer
  • Bowls

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil salted water, add macaroni, and cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and let sit.
  2. In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes, then slowly add milk while whisking until thick and bubbly.
  3. Lower heat and stir in cheese gradually until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, then mix in the drained macaroni.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until cool and firm.
  5. Shape cooled mixture into 1-inch balls and freeze for at least 1 hour.
  6. Beat eggs with a splash of milk for the egg wash.
  7. Dip each ball into egg wash, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat.
  8. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  9. Fry balls in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  10. Serve warm with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 1biteCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Ensure the mixture is well-chilled before forming to retain shape when frying. Fry in small batches for even cooking.

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