why make this recipe

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a fun and delicious snack or appetizer. They turn creamy, cheesy macaroni into crunchy bites that everyone loves. Perfect for parties or movie nights, these bites are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, who doesn’t love fried food?

how to make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish and refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours.
Once set, cut the mac and cheese into bite-sized squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
Dredge each mac and cheese piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot.

how to serve Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Serve the Fried Mac and Cheese Bites hot and crispy. You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy ketchup. They make a great snack for game nights, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers.

how to store Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

If you have leftovers, let the mac and cheese bites cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help keep them crispy.

tips to make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

For extra flavor, add spices or cooked bacon bits to the mac and cheese mixture.
Make sure to let the mixture chill and firm up completely before cutting and frying.
Use a food thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.

variation

You can change the type of cheese or add different ingredients to the mac and cheese mixture. Consider using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or adding cooked vegetables like broccoli for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bites in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese mixture and refrigerate it. Just fry them right before serving for the best texture.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free version and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.

3. What can I serve with these bites?
They pair well with a variety of sauces such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or a classic marinara sauce for dipping.

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites