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Mac N Cheese Bites with Crispy Crust

Crispy golden-fried balls of creamy homemade mac and cheese, coated in crunchy Panko breadcrumbs. The ultimate cheesy party appetizer.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 18 bites
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Macaroni & Cheese Base
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni dry
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour for sauce
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
Breading & Frying
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 2 eggs large, beaten
  • 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 cups vegetable oil for frying (approximate)

Equipment

  • Large Saucepan
  • Deep Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Thermometer
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Boil macaroni in salted water until slightly undercooked (al dente minus 1 minute). Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened. Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in the cooked macaroni.
  5. Transfer mixture to a container, cover, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight until completely firm.
  6. Scoop chilled mixture and roll into 1.5-inch balls.
  7. Dredge each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly in Panko breadcrumbs.
  8. Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Fry balls in small batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.

Notes

Chill time is mandatory; do not skip or the balls will fall apart in the oil. Serve with marinara or ranch.