Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Smothered in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust, creamy macaroni and cheese, Fried Mac and Cheese Balls elevate a classic comfort food to whole new levels. With the delightful crunch of fried foods and the comforting aromas of homemade macaroni, this creative appetizer is ideal for gatherings or as a luxurious snack. Making these mouthwatering morsels is the focus of this post.

Tasting Notes

The exterior boasts a satisfying crunch, while the interior is a creamy blend of macaroni and gooey cheese. The contrasting textures create a delightful harmony, making each bite a flavorful journey. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium-sized pot for frying
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, garlic powder, and onion powder, whisking constantly until a paste forms. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Reduce heat and add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: In the large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until well-coated. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Shape into Balls: With damp hands, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mac and cheese mixture and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each mac and cheese ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. Place the coated balls back on the baking sheet.
6. Chill in the Refrigerator: Refrigerate the coated balls for at least 1 hour to help them set.
7. Heat the Oil: In a medium-sized pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry the Balls: Carefully place a few mac and cheese balls into the hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fried mac and cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as mozzarella or gouda, to customize the flavor.

Variations

• Baked Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated mac and cheese balls until golden brown, turning halfway through.
• Bacon Bits: Mix in crispy bacon bits into the mac and cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.

FAQs