Description
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
Ingredients:
For the mac and cheese:
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For frying:
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
Make the mac and cheese:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Fold in the cooked macaroni and mix until evenly coated. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. For faster cooling, spread the mac and cheese on a baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Form the mac and cheese balls:
Once the mac and cheese is cooled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Set them on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.
Bread the mac and cheese balls:
In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Roll each mac and cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each ball is thoroughly coated.
Fry the mac and cheese balls:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few mac and cheese balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the balls from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Serve:
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve the mac and cheese balls with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
These crispy fried mac and cheese balls are gooey on the inside with a crunchy golden exterior—perfect for a fun appetizer or a tasty snack!