Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Name: Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy macaroni and cheese with a crispy golden exterior. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:21:02.516Z

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. These bites are rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy night in!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center
Great for parties and gatherings
Easy to make and customize with your favorite cheeses

      

The Perfect Snack

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are not just a dish; they're an experience. Imagine biting into a crispy golden shell that gives way to a warm, gooey interior bursting with cheesy goodness. Whether you're hosting a game day party or just looking for a satisfying snack, these bites are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. They’re versatile enough to serve as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course.

One of the best aspects of these bites is their adaptability. You can customize the cheese blend to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer the sharpness of aged cheddar, the creaminess of mozzarella, or the tang of pepper jack. This allows you to experiment and find the perfect flavor combination that will delight your palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are ideal for any gathering. They're small, easy to eat, and make for a fun finger food option. Serve them at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers, and watch as they quickly disappear off the table. Their delicious flavor and crispy texture will have everyone raving about them.

Additionally, they can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests. Just fry them up straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve. This convenience adds to their appeal, allowing you to enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To ensure your Fried Mac and Cheese Bites come out perfectly every time, consider using a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature while frying. Keeping the oil at around 350°F (175°C) will help achieve that desirable crispy texture without overcooking the bites. Frying in small batches will also prevent the temperature from dropping too much, ensuring even cooking.

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Adding cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or even spinach can elevate these bites to a whole new level. You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko, for an extra crunch. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

1 cup elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Combine and Chill

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. Transfer to a baking dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until firm.

Prepare for Frying

Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each ball first in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs.

Fry the Bites

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites can be served with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Consider pairing them with marinara sauce for a classic Italian twist, or a spicy aioli for those who enjoy a kick. Even a simple ranch or ketchup can work wonders. Don’t hesitate to set up a dipping station so guests can choose their favorite sauce.

For a complete meal, serve these bites alongside a fresh salad or slaw. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the mac and cheese, creating a harmonious plate that delights the senses. This combination not only makes for a satisfying meal but also a visually appealing one.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Fried Mac and Cheese Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain their delicious texture, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the uncooked bites before frying. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to fry them, you can cook them straight from the freezer; just add a minute or two to the cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese mixture a day in advance and chill it before breading and frying.

→ What types of cheese can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for varied flavors.

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown, but the texture will be different.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.