Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food with a Twist: This recipe takes classic macaroni and cheese to the next level, turning it into a fun, bite-sized snack that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these macaroni and cheese balls come together in just a few minutes of prep time, making them perfect for any gathering or craving.
- Customizable: You can mix in your favorite cheeses or add extras like jalapeños, or herbs to create your own signature version of this dish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked macaroni (elbow or shells)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko)
- 2 large eggs
- Oil for frying
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Cook the Macaroni
Follow the package instructions to cook your macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Mix the Cheeses
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring the cheeses are evenly distributed.
3. Chill the Mixture
Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture will help it firm up, making it easier to handle when forming the balls.
4. Form the Balls
Once the mixture is chilled, use your hands to form small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Be sure to pack the mixture tightly so the balls hold together during frying.
5. Prepare the Breading Station
Set up a breading station with two bowls: one with beaten eggs and the other with breadcrumbs (either Italian-style or panko).
6. Coat the Balls
Dip each mac and cheese ball into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until they are fully coated. Repeat until all balls are breaded.
7. Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the balls, about 3-4 inches deep. Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry the Balls
Carefully drop a few balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the balls for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
9. Drain
Once all the balls are fried, let them rest on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
10. Repeat
Continue frying in batches until all the macaroni and cheese balls are cooked. Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 15-20 balls (depending on size)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 3-4 minutes per batch
- Total time: 6 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Mac & Cheese Balls: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Gouda, or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover macaroni and cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the macaroni and cheese balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. However, frying gives them a more traditional crispy texture.
2. Can I freeze the mac and cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked mac and cheese balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or rigatoni.
4. Can I make the mac and cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mac and cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to chill the mixture before forming the balls and frying.
5. How can I make these gluten-free?
To make these gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure the pasta and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
6. Can I make mini mac and cheese balls?
Yes! For smaller bite-sized versions, use about 1 teaspoon of the mixture per ball and reduce the frying time accordingly.
7. How do I know when the mac and cheese balls are done frying?
The balls should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
8. What can I serve these with?
Serve your mac and cheese balls with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.
9. Can I add vegetables to the mixture?
Yes! You can add finely chopped spinach, peas, or even roasted peppers to the cheese mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
10. How can I prevent the balls from falling apart while frying?
Make sure the mixture is chilled before forming the balls, and ensure that the balls are tightly packed. Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to allow the balls to cook evenly.
Conclusion
Fried Macaroni & Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort food snack. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a party, game day, or just as a treat, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy!
Fried Macaroni & Cheese Balls: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 6 minutes
- Yield: 15-20 balls (depending on size)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fried Macaroni & Cheese Balls with a crispy golden exterior and creamy cheesy center, making them the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Macaroni:
3 cups cooked macaroni (elbow or shells)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Breading:
1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko)
2 large eggs
Oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Follow the package instructions to cook your macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring the cheeses are evenly distributed.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle when forming the balls.
- Form the Balls: Once the mixture is chilled, use your hands to form small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Pack the mixture tightly so the balls hold together during frying.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up two bowls: one with beaten eggs and the other with breadcrumbs (either Italian-style or panko).
- Coat the Balls: Dip each mac and cheese ball into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Repeat until all balls are breaded.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to submerge the balls (about 3-4 inches deep).
- Fry the Balls: Carefully drop a few balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Repeat: Continue frying the remaining balls in batches until all are cooked. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
If you prefer a spicy version, mix in finely chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Gouda, for unique flavor combinations.
These can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 minutes per batch
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
