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: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup all-purpose flour; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:57:39.730Z

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in, these bites are sure to please any crowd.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior that gives way to creamy, cheesy goodness
Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses
Great for sharing or as a fun appetizer

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a casual family dinner, or a festive holiday celebration, these bites are sure to impress. Their irresistible combination of crunch and creaminess makes them a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

These bites also make for an excellent appetizer at cocktail parties or potlucks. They can be made ahead of time and served hot or at room temperature, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Simply prepare, fry, and watch them disappear!

Customization Options

One of the best features of Fried Mac and Cheese Bites is their adaptability. You can easily customize the cheese blend to suit your taste. Consider mixing sharp cheddar with creamy mozzarella or adding some crumbled blue cheese for a gourmet twist. This allows you to tailor the flavor profile to match your personal preference or impress your guests with unique combinations.

Additionally, feel free to add extra ingredients to the mac and cheese mixture. Cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or even sautéed mushrooms can elevate these bites from simple to spectacular. Get creative and let your culinary imagination run wild!

Tips for Perfect Bites

To achieve the ideal texture, make sure the mac and cheese mixture is completely cooled before shaping it into bites. This helps them hold their shape during frying. If you find the mixture is too sticky, a little extra flour can help with forming the balls or patties.

Frying in batches is crucial to ensure even cooking and to avoid overcrowding in the oil. This guarantees that each bite gets the crispy exterior you desire. Don't forget to drain the fried bites on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping them light and enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For Breading and Frying

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup all-purpose flour
Oil for frying

Make sure to prepare the ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 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 flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened. Add cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, stirring until smooth. Combine with the cooked macaroni and mix well.

Form the Bites

Allow the mac and cheese to cool, then shape it into small balls or patties. Place on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Bread the Bites

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese ball into flour, then egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Bites

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Enjoy your Fried Mac and Cheese Bites hot, with your favorite dipping sauces!

Serving Suggestions

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites can be served with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Classic choices include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha aioli for those who enjoy a kick. You could also consider a tangy buffalo sauce or a sweet chili sauce for a delightful contrast.

These bites are fantastic as a standalone snack, but they can also be paired with a fresh salad or vegetable platter for a more balanced meal. Their rich flavors complement lighter dishes well, making for a satisfying dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the fried mac and cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispy texture, consider reheating them in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave. This will help regain their crunchiness while warming them through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the un-fried mac and cheese bites. Once breaded, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, fry them straight from the freezer—just extend the frying time by a minute or two.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese bites and refrigerate them before breading and frying.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these bites?

They pair well with marinara, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden, but they won't be as crispy.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to mix and match cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavors.