Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Name: Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bites
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese in a crispy, golden exterior.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:50:55.382Z

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. With their crispy coating and gooey center, they are sure to become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy exterior with a creamy, cheesy center
Perfect bite-sized snacks for any occasion
Easily customizable with your favorite cheeses or add-ins

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are perfect for any gathering or celebration. Whether it's a game day, birthday party, or a casual family dinner, these bite-sized snacks are sure to delight guests of all ages. Their crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy center create a satisfying contrast that is hard to resist.

These bites are also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them to suit your preferences, whether you want to add some spicy jalapeños for a kick or incorporate different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. No matter how you decide to make them, they are bound to be a hit!

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture for your Fried Mac and Cheese Bites, it's essential to ensure that the macaroni is fully cooked but not mushy. Al dente pasta holds its shape better during frying and gives the bites a pleasant chewiness. Additionally, letting the mac and cheese cool and firm up in the freezer before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart in the hot oil.

When it comes to frying, maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the bites may brown quickly on the outside while remaining cold and uncooked inside. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the bites can absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy texture. A good rule of thumb is to keep the oil at a steady medium-high heat for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites can be served as is, or you can elevate your presentation with dipping sauces. A tangy marinara, creamy ranch, or zesty buffalo sauce can complement the rich flavors of the bites. Consider setting up a dipping station for your guests to enjoy a variety of flavors, making the experience more interactive and fun.

For a complete snack platter, pair these bites with fresh veggies, chips, or other finger foods. This not only adds color and variety to your table but also ensures that your guests have plenty of options to nibble on. With the right accompaniments, your fried mac and cheese bites will be the star of the show!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheese until melted. Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.

Form the Bites

Let the mac and cheese cool slightly, then scoop out small portions and shape them into bite-sized balls. Place on a baking sheet and freeze for about 15 minutes.

Coat the Bites

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each mac and cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Bites

In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the bites in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes each. Drain on paper towels.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, mix in some cooked bacon or jalapeños into the mac and cheese before forming the bites.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have any leftover Fried Mac and Cheese Bites, storing them is simple. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When freezing, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, simply place the bites in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using a microwave, as this may make the bites soggy rather than restoring their delightful crunch.

Nutritional Information

While Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are undeniably delicious, it's good to be mindful of their nutritional content. Each bite is rich in carbohydrates and fats, making them a hearty snack. Depending on the cheese and coating you choose, they can also provide a decent amount of protein.

For a healthier twist, consider baking the bites instead of frying them. This can significantly reduce the calorie count while still delivering that comforting mac and cheese flavor. You can also experiment with whole grain breadcrumbs or a mix of vegetables to boost the nutritional value without compromising on taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make these bites ahead of time?

You can prepare the mac and cheese bites and freeze them before frying. Just fry them when you're ready to serve!

→ What dipping sauces go well with these bites?

They pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.