Ingredients
Scale
For the Mac and Cheese Base:
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Coating and Frying:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Bacon bits
- Jalapeños for spice
- Garlic powder or paprika for flavor
Instructions
1. Making the Mac and Cheese
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour to create a roux and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce and stir until completely melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix in the cooked elbow macaroni until well-coated.
2. Chilling the Mixture
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. For quicker results, place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
3. Shaping and Coating the Balls
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the mac and cheese mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.
- In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Roll each mac and cheese ball in the flour, dip it in the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Frying the Balls
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
- Transfer the fried balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Shape and freeze the mac and cheese balls before frying for up to 1 month.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara, ranch, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian