Looking for a fun and irresistible snack to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings? Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the perfect solution! This delicious dish combines the comforting, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with a crispy golden coating that’s sure to leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family dinner, or simply looking for a savory treat, these mac and cheese balls will be the star of the show.
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. You can prepare the mac and cheese base ahead of time, allowing it to chill and firm up, making it easier to form into bite-sized balls. After dipping them into breadcrumbs and frying until golden, the mac and cheese balls are crunchy on the outside while remaining delectably gooey and cheesy on the inside. The contrast in textures is irresistible, and every bite delivers comfort food at its finest.
Not only are fried mac and cheese balls mouthwatering, but they’re also customizable to suit your preferences. Add extra ingredients like bacon, jalapeños, or herbs for a unique twist, or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to any flavor profile, ensuring it’s always a hit at any gathering.
Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make these addictive fried mac and cheese balls from scratch!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
If you’re a fan of classic mac and cheese, then you’re going to absolutely love this fried version! Fried Mac and Cheese Balls bring together everything you love about mac and cheese but with the added joy of a crispy, golden crust. There’s something truly satisfying about biting into one of these little morsels and experiencing that perfect balance between crunchy and creamy.
One of the things that makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to prepare. With a few simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, cheese, breadcrumbs, and a little seasoning, you can create a delicious dish that is sure to wow your family or guests. The best part? You can make the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up—making it easier to form into perfect little balls.
These fried mac and cheese balls are incredibly versatile. They’re a great appetizer or finger food for parties and gatherings, but they can also be served as a main dish alongside a side salad or dipping sauce. Whether you serve them as a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, they’re bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
Additionally, the recipe allows for plenty of customization. You can choose your favorite cheeses for the filling, add some heat with chili or jalapeños, or even mix in bacon bits for an extra savory punch. This makes fried mac and cheese balls a fun, personalized dish that can be adjusted to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Equipment Used
- Saucepan: To make the creamy cheese sauce for the mac and cheese.
- Large Pot or Deep Fryer: For frying the mac and cheese balls until golden and crispy.
- Shallow Bowls: For dipping the mac and cheese balls into the egg wash and breadcrumbs.
- Slotted Spoon or Tongs: To carefully lower and remove the mac and cheese balls from the hot oil.
- Baking Sheet or Tray: For cooling the fried mac and cheese balls and draining excess oil.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the mac and cheese ingredients and shaping the balls.
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Mac and Cheese Base: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt smoothly into the sauce. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated. Let the mixture cool for about 30 minutes, or until it firms up slightly
. - Shape the Mac and Cheese Balls: Once the mixture has cooled, take a spoonful and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Bread the Balls: Crack an egg into a shallow bowl and beat it. In a separate bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is well-coated.
- Fry the Balls: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat. Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fried mac and cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or sriracha mayo.
Nutritional Information
These fried mac and cheese balls are a treat that packs a flavorful punch, but it’s important to be mindful of the nutritional content. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one mac and cheese ball:
- Calories: 150-180 per ball
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
Since these balls are fried, they can be higher in fat and calories. However, you can make adjustments to reduce the calorie count by baking them instead of frying, or by using lighter cheese and breading options. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium cheese and controlling the amount of salt added to the recipe.
These mac and cheese balls are an occasional indulgence that can be part of a balanced diet. Enjoy them as a fun appetizer or side dish, but keep in mind that they are best served in moderation!
Variations
- Bacon Mac and Cheese Balls: Add crumbled bacon to the mac and cheese mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese Balls: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the balls a spicy kick.
- Veggie Mac and Cheese Balls: Mix in some finely chopped spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Baked Mac and Cheese Balls: For a healthier version, bake the breaded mac and cheese balls in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these mac and cheese balls ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese mixture and form the balls in advance. Simply refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight before breading and frying.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying? Absolutely! For a lighter option, bake the mac and cheese balls at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
3. Can I freeze the mac and cheese balls? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked mac and cheese balls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake them straight from the freezer when ready to enjoy.
4. What is the best dipping sauce for mac and cheese balls? Classic marinara, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or even a spicy buffalo sauce all make fantastic dips for these fried mac and cheese balls.
Pro Tips By Emma
- Chill the mac and cheese: Make sure to let the mac and cheese mixture cool completely and firm up before shaping the balls. This will make them easier to handle and help them hold their shape during frying.
- Double breading for extra crunch: For an extra crispy coating, dip the balls in egg and breadcrumbs twice before frying.
- Use a thermometer: Keep the oil temperature around 350°F to ensure that the mac and cheese balls cook evenly without becoming too greasy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your fried mac and cheese balls as an appetizer with a side of marinara or spicy ketchup for dipping.
- Pair them with a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Serve them alongside other party snacks like mozzarella sticks, sliders, or chicken wings for an unforgettable spread at your next gathering.
Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe : Easy & Delicious
Equipment
- Saucepan: To make the creamy cheese sauce for the mac and cheese.
- Large Pot or Deep Fryer: For frying the mac and cheese balls until golden and crispy.
- Shallow Bowls: For dipping the mac and cheese balls into the egg wash and breadcrumbs.
- Slotted Spoon or Tongs: To carefully lower and remove the mac and cheese balls from the hot oil.
- Baking Sheet or Tray: For cooling the fried mac and cheese balls and draining excess oil.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the mac and cheese ingredients and shaping the balls.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Mac and Cheese Base: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt smoothly into the sauce. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated. Let the mixture cool for about 30 minutes, or until it firms up slightly.
- Shape the Mac and Cheese Balls: Once the mixture has cooled, take a spoonful and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Bread the Balls: Crack an egg into a shallow bowl and beat it. In a separate bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is well-coated.
- Fry the Balls: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat. Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fried mac and cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or sriracha mayo.