If you have a thing for comfort food that’s utterly crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside, you’re going to adore this Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe. It takes your classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level by transforming it into fun, golden bites that are perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. Imagine perfectly breaded spheres with gooey cheddar cheese and macaroni tucked inside, fried just right to deliver that satisfying crunch with each bite. This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to add a little gourmet flair to an all-time favorite dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role in the finished dish. From the creamy macaroni and cheese base to the crunchy, seasoned breadcrumbs, every component adds something special — texture, flavor, or that crave-worthy color.
- Prepared macaroni and cheese (3 cups): Make sure it’s fully cooled so the balls hold their shape well when frying.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds extra cheesiness and richness to the inside mixture.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Helps the breading stick perfectly without falling apart.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Acts as a sticky binder between the flour and breadcrumbs layers.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (1 ½ cups): Provides that golden, crunchy exterior that makes these bites irresistible.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Use enough for deep frying to cook the balls evenly and get that perfect crispness.
How to Make Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Shape the Mixture
Start by mixing your cold macaroni and cheese with the shredded cheddar to amp up the flavor. Using your hands, scoop out about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball. This step is key to ensuring that the balls hold together well while frying, so don’t be shy about pressing firmly. Place each formed ball on a baking sheet and once all are done, pop them into the freezer for at least an hour. Freezing is essential to prevent them from falling apart during the frying process.
Step 2: Prepare Your Breading Station
While your mac and cheese balls freeze, set up three shallow bowls for breading: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the seasoned breadcrumbs. This classic breading technique creates layers of coating that give you that much-loved crunch. When ready, take each ball from the freezer and roll it first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the crumbs gently so they stick well.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat your vegetable oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit in a deep saucepan or skillet — the hot oil is essential for quick, even cooking. Fry the balls in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch for about 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown all over. When done, scoop them out with a slotted spoon onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest just a little so they’re warm but not too hot to enjoy.
How to Serve Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate these golden treats from snack to star. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brighten up the dish and add a pop of color. A light drizzle of spicy aioli or a dusting of smoked paprika can infuse that extra kick, making your Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe even more memorable.
Side Dishes
These mac and cheese balls work beautifully alongside a crisp green salad for balance or a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch contrast. If you want to stick to comfort food vibes, pair them with baked beans or roasted veggies to round out the meal in style.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, serve these bites on a wooden platter with toothpicks and an array of dipping sauces like honey mustard, marinara, or ranch. You can also stuff the balls with extra bits like crumbled bacon or jalapeños before freezing to surprise your guests with hidden flavors when they take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover mac and cheese balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to three days. Refrigeration helps maintain their shape but expect the exterior to lose some of its crispiness over time.
Freezing
This Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe is freezer-friendly! After you’ve formed and breaded the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to a month. This makes them perfect for a quick snack anytime you want a little comfort food magic.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, pop the frozen balls into a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and crisped up again, about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy and the inside too soft.
FAQs
Can I use homemade mac and cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade mac and cheese is perfect for this recipe as long as it’s completely cooled and thick enough to hold shape. Avoid super saucy versions to prevent the balls from falling apart during frying.
What kind of breadcrumbs work best?
Seasoned breadcrumbs add a ton of flavor right from the start, but you could also use plain breadcrumbs and add your own spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs. Panko breadcrumbs give a crunchier texture if you prefer an extra crispy coating.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, for a lighter option, you can bake the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. Just keep in mind the texture will be a little different than traditional frying.
How do I prevent the mac and cheese balls from falling apart?
Freezing the shaped balls before breading and frying is the crucial step here. This makes them firmer and helps everything stick together when submerged in hot oil.
Are these suitable for vegetarians?
They sure are! This Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe contains no meat, making it perfect for vegetarians. Just ensure the cheese you use aligns with your dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
There really is nothing quite like biting into a crispy, golden Fried Mac and Cheese Ball and experiencing that melty, cheesy goodness inside. It’s a recipe that’s fun to make, easy to share, and guaranteed to brighten up any snack or appetizer spread. I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a staple for your gatherings and cozy nights alike. So go ahead, roll up those sleeves and dive into this deliciously comforting treat.
Print
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour freezing time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these fried mac and cheese balls are the perfect comfort food appetizer. Made with creamy macaroni and cheese, shredded cheddar, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating, they make a crowd-pleasing snack or party treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups prepared macaroni and cheese (cooled completely)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix the Mac and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cold macaroni and cheese with the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the cheese. This will ensure that each ball is creamy and cheesy inside.
- Form the Balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it tightly into a ball with your hands. Place the balls on a baking sheet and repeat the process until all the mixture is used. Freeze for at least 1 hour or until the balls are firm to help maintain their shape during frying.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls for breading: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. This will help create a crispy, golden coating.
- Bread the Balls: Roll each frozen mac and cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Heat the Oil: Pour 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep saucepan or skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the proper oil temperature is key to achieving a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Balls: Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Allow the fried mac and cheese balls to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm while the cheese inside is gooey.
Notes
- Use either homemade or store-bought mac and cheese; just make sure it’s very cold for easier shaping.
- For flavor variations, add crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent to prevent greasy or burnt balls.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven to retain crispiness instead of microwaving.
