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Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 11 reviews
  • Author: Hugo
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 bites 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the perfect indulgent appetizer or snack. Made by shaping chilled, cheesy macaroni into bite-sized pieces, breading them, and frying to golden perfection, these bites combine the comfort of mac and cheese with the satisfying crunch of deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Breading and Frying

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the roux and cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
  3. Add cheese: Stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until they fully melt into the sauce, creating a creamy cheese mixture.
  4. Combine macaroni and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat the pasta. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Chill the mixture: Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish. Refrigerate for about 2 hours until it firms up enough to shape.
  6. Shape the bites: Once set, cut the mac and cheese into bite-sized squares or use small cookie cutters to create uniform shapes.
  7. Prepare breading station: Arrange three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs respectively.
  8. Bread the mac and cheese bites: Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  9. Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy pot to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
  10. Fry the bites: Carefully fry the breaded bites in batches for about 3-4 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and crispy all over.
  11. Drain and serve: Remove the fried bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor and mozzarella for creamy meltiness.
  • Be sure to chill the mac and cheese mixture long enough to firm up for easier shaping.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure crispy bites without greasy results.
  • These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven before serving.
  • Try adding herbs or spices like paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumb coating for extra flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 bites (approx. 120g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Fried mac and cheese bites, cheesy appetizers, deep fried snacks, comfort food bites

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Find it online: https://flavorsbyhugo.com/fried-mac-and-cheese-bites-recipe/