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The Best Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls Recipe Ever Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 145 reviews

These Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort snack, combining creamy macaroni and cheese with a perfectly crunchy, golden breadcrumb coating. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they make an irresistible appetizer or party finger food that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Base

  • 2 cups cooked macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Breading Station

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 3 inches deep in pot)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Mac and Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform mac and cheese base.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a shallow dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours until very firm. This step is essential to ensure the balls will hold their shape during frying.
  3. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes—one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs—to dredge the mac and cheese balls properly.
  4. Form the Balls: Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, scoop chilled mac and cheese mixture and roll into compact balls approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
  5. Bread the Balls: Coat each ball first in flour (shake off excess), then dip into beaten eggs (allow excess to drip off), and finally roll generously in breadcrumbs, pressing firmly for a thick, even coating.
  6. Firm Up Coating: Place the breaded balls on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 15-20 minutes. This helps the coating set and prevents it from falling off during frying.
  7. Heat Oil: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C), filling the pot to a depth of about 3 inches but no more than halfway full.
  8. Fry the Balls: Carefully lower 3-4 of the chilled mac and cheese balls into the hot oil with a slotted spoon without overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning gently to achieve an even golden brown and crispy crust.
  9. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried balls with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil thoroughly.
  10. Serve: Serve the mac and cheese balls immediately while hot. They’re perfect served alone or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Ensure the mac and cheese mixture is completely cooled and firm to prevent the balls from falling apart during frying.
  • Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F is crucial to get a crispy outside without absorbing too much oil.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pot to avoid oil temperature drop and soggy results.
  • You can prepare these in advance, keep them refrigerated or frozen, then fry when ready to serve.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Keywords: Mac and Cheese Balls, Fried Appetizer, Crispy Snack, Party Food, Comfort Food, Fried Mac and Cheese

Find it online: https://annakocht.com/the-best-crispy-fried-mac-and-cheese-balls-recipe-ever-recipe/