Description
These crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are a deliciously indulgent appetizer or snack. Made from creamy macaroni and cheese, shaped into bite-sized balls, coated in panko breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden and crunchy. They are perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you’re craving a comforting treat with a crispy exterior and cheesy center.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Balls
- 3 cups macaroni and cheese, refrigerated at least 4 hours
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Shape the balls: Scoop out a spoonful of chilled mac and cheese using a cookie scoop and shape each into a 1.5-inch ball. Repeat until all the mac and cheese is shaped into balls.
- Coat the balls: Pour the beaten egg into one bowl and the panko breadcrumbs into another. Dip each mac and cheese ball first into the egg, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs to cover completely.
- Heat the oil: In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering and sizzling hot, about 4 minutes. The oil should be hot enough to fry but not smoking.
- Fry the balls: Carefully add 4-5 mac and cheese balls to the hot oil at a time, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried balls onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the mac and cheese balls hot for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Freezing: Arrange uncooked, coated mac and cheese balls in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. They can be deep-fried directly from frozen.
- Air Frying: Lightly spray assembled balls with cooking spray oil. Place them in a single layer in an air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry at 350°F for 15 minutes until crispy, working in batches if needed.
- Baking: Place assembled balls on a parchment or silicone-lined half sheet pan. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes, rotating every 5-10 minutes for even browning until crispy on the outside.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (approx. 45g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
