Description
Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful appetizer or snack featuring creamy, cheesy macaroni coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust and deep-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats combine comfort food flavors with a crispy exterior, making them perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a warm, cheesy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading and Frying
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 4-5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely; chilling in the refrigerator for about an hour helps it firm up for shaping.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs.
- Form the Bites: Once chilled, scoop about 1 tablespoon portions of mac and cheese and shape them into balls or small disks. Repeat for all the mixture.
- Bread the Bites: Dredge each shaped bite first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
- Fry the Bites: Heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the crispy mac and cheese bites hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Chilling the mac and cheese before forming the bites makes shaping much easier.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch but regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even frying and prevent greasy bites.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce or breadcrumb coating.
- Leftover mac and cheese bites can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
