Description
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are a delicious appetizer or snack made from leftover macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 cups prepared macaroni and cheese (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the macaroni and cheese with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Roll each frozen mac and cheese ball in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for a second coating if desired.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the balls in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Chilling the mac and cheese balls before frying helps them hold their shape.
- You can use leftover homemade or boxed macaroni and cheese.
- Double coating with breadcrumbs gives extra crunch.
- Serve with marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg