Description
Cheesy Mac & Cheese Balls
Ingredients:
2 cups prepared mac & cheese (cooled)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions:
Prepare the Mac & Cheese Balls:
Scoop cooled mac & cheese into small portions (about 2 tablespoons each). Flatten slightly, add a pinch of mozzarella to the center, and roll into a ball. Repeat for all portions.
Set Up the Breading Station:
Place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Season the breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Balls:
Roll each mac & cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure they’re fully covered.
Fry to Perfection:
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the crispy mac & cheese balls with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for a gourmet touch.
These Cheesy Mac & Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort food with a crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party treat!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, ensure your prepared mac and cheese is thoroughly chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight; this is crucial for shaping. Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to portion the mac and cheese. When adding the mozzarella center, ensure the outer layer of mac and cheese completely seals it to prevent leaks. For the breading, use one hand for dry ingredients (flour, breadcrumbs) and the other for the wet egg to keep your hands from becoming a messy, clumpy disaster. Maintain your oil temperature carefully; use a thermometer and fry in small batches to avoid crowding, which causes the temperature to drop and leads to greasy balls.
Serving Suggestions
While marinara is classic, these balls pair wonderfully with other dips like creamy ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or a cheese sauce for extra indulgence. Serve them as a standout appetizer on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. For a fun meal, they make a great topping for a salad or can be served alongside a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combo.
How-to Summary
To summarize: chill your mac and cheese, scoop and shape into balls with a cheese center, then bread using a standard three-step station (flour, egg, seasoned breadcrumbs). Fry in hot oil (350°F) until deeply golden, drain well, and serve immediately with your favorite dips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes. Place breaded balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway. They will be less crispy but still delicious.
Can I make these ahead of time? You can bread the balls and store them in a single layer in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze the breaded balls on a sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
What’s the best mac and cheese to use? A stovetop mac and cheese with a thicker, cream-based sauce works better than a very loose, runny cheese sauce. Avoid baked versions that are too dry.
My balls are falling apart in the oil. What happened? This usually means the mac and cheese wasn’t cold enough, the breading layer was too thin, or the oil temperature was too low. Ensure proper chilling and a thorough breadcrumb coating.
Can I use an air fryer? Absolutely. Spray breaded balls generously with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm, freshly made mac and cheese—it will be impossible to shape. Do not skip the flour step in the breading process, as it helps the egg adhere. Do not overcrowd the frying pot, as this causes uneven cooking and sogginess. Finally, do not forget to let the balls drain on a wire rack over a paper towel instead of just on a plate; this prevents the bottom from getting steamy and soft.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Mac & Cheese Balls transform a classic side dish into a fun, shareable, and utterly irresistible treat. The process is straightforward, and the result—a crispy, golden shell giving way to a molten, cheesy center—is always a crowd-pleaser. By following the tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this perfect party appetizer or indulgent snack. Get creative with dips and enjoy the delicious, gooey results!