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Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites with Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe

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4 from 15 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 37 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings

Description

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a perfect appetizer or snack. Made from cold, prepared mac and cheese rolled into balls, coated in a seasoned flour and panko breadcrumb mixture, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with marinara sauce and optionally garnished with fresh parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

Mac and Cheese Balls

  • 6 cups prepared mac and cheese (cold)

Breading Mixture

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 3 eggs (beaten)
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

Frying

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Serving and Garnish

  • Marinara sauce (for serving)
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Optional: shredded Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Form the Mac and Cheese Balls: Using clean hands, roll the prepared cold mac and cheese into large 2-inch balls. Place these balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
  2. Freeze to Set: Put the baking sheet with the mac and cheese balls into the freezer for 1 hour. This step firms up the balls, which is essential for handling and coating.
  3. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika until evenly combined to create a seasoned flour base for dredging.
  4. Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs thoroughly to use as a binding agent for the breading.
  5. Ready the Breadcrumbs: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish for the final coating step.
  6. Shape and Dredge: Remove the mac and cheese balls from the freezer. If needed, reshape any that are misshapen. First dredge each ball in the flour mixture, shaking off excess flour.
  7. Coat with Egg: Dip each floured mac and cheese ball fully into the beaten eggs, ensuring a complete coating to help the breadcrumbs adhere well.
  8. Breadcrumb Coat: Press each egg-coated ball into the panko breadcrumbs, gently but thoroughly covering the entire surface. Make sure the coating is consistent for even frying.
  9. Freeze Again: Return the breaded mac and cheese balls to the baking sheet and place back in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step sets the coating, which helps prevent it from falling apart during frying.
  10. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 360°F (182°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the bites to ensure even frying.
  11. Fry Until Golden: Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches for 5 to 7 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even golden-brown, crispy exteriors and thoroughly warmed interiors.
  12. Drain Excess Oil: Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the fried balls from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease.
  13. Serve: Serve the Fried Mac and Cheese Bites hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Notes

  • Freezing the mac and cheese balls both before and after breading is crucial to keep their shape during frying.
  • Use cold, prepared mac and cheese to help maintain structure when forming the balls.
  • Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 360°F to ensure crispy but not greasy bites.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Be cautious when frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the oil, which can lower the temperature and result in soggy bites.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/crispy-fried-mac-and-cheese-bites-with-marinara-dipping-sauce-recipe/