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The Ultimate Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls (Easy Recipe Using Leftovers)

A stack of crispy, golden fried mac and cheese balls, one cut open showing the melted, gooey macaroni inside.
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Make irresistible fried mac and cheese balls that are crispy outside and gooey inside. This simple recipe works perfectly with leftover mac and cheese and is ideal for parties or game day snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cooked leftover mac and cheese, chilled
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Ensure your leftover mac and cheese is completely chilled, preferably for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the balls hold their shape.
  2. Prepare a standard breading station using three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Whisk eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the chilled mac and cheese and roll it gently between your palms to form a tight ball.
  4. Dredge each ball first in the flour, shaking off excess.
  5. Dip the floured ball into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
  6. Roll the ball thoroughly in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the coating adheres completely.
  7. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If time allows, chill the coated balls for 30 minutes to help the coating set before frying.
  8. Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  9. Carefully lower 3 to 4 balls at a time into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot.
  10. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the exterior is deep golden brown and crispy.
  11. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  12. Serve immediately while the interior is warm and gooey.

Notes

  • For an Air Fryer alternative, spray the coated balls lightly with cooking spray. Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  • Serve these crispy fried mac and cheese bites with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
  • These make great make ahead appetizers; freeze the coated, uncooked balls, then fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/fried-mac-and-cheese-balls-recipe/