These Deep Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate indulgence. Crispy on the outside, with a gooey, cheesy center, they provide the perfect balance of textures. They’re great as an appetizer or snack and will have everyone coming back for more.
The versatility of this dish also allows for various dips. Whether it’s a tangy marinara, creamy ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo, the Mac and Cheese Balls take on new dimensions of flavor. They make an impressive dish for gatherings or even a fun family snack that everyone will love.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 lb elbow macaroni
-
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
-
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup milk
-
2 eggs
-
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 cup breadcrumbs
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions:
-
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, cream cheese, and milk. Mix until well combined.
-
Crack two eggs into the mixture and stir until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
-
In a shallow bowl, add the flour. In another shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
-
Roll the mac and cheese mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
-
Dredge each mac and cheese ball in flour, then dip into beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
-
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the mac and cheese balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove the balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal
Servings: 10 servings
Why Deep Fried Mac and Cheese Balls?
While macaroni and cheese is a classic dish that’s always a hit, deep frying it adds a whole new dimension. By coating the mac and cheese in a crunchy panko breadcrumb shell, you create a contrast in textures that elevates the dish. The creamy, cheesy interior is indulgent and comforting, while the crispy exterior offers a satisfying crunch with each bite. The result is a mouthwatering snack or appetizer that is perfect for any occasion.
The Secret Ingredients
The recipe calls for some pretty simple ingredients, but it’s the combination of these ingredients that creates the magic. The use of two types of cheese – sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack – gives the mac and cheese a smooth, creamy texture that melts beautifully. Adding crispy bacon to the mix is an optional yet recommended step, as it provides an additional layer of flavor and smokiness that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Cooking Method: A Step-by-Step Process
Making deep-fried mac and cheese balls requires a little patience, but the result is more than worth the effort. First, you prepare the creamy mac and cheese using a roux made from bacon grease (or butter if you’re making it vegetarian) and all-purpose flour. This roux creates the perfect base for the sauce, to which milk, seasonings, and cheese are added to form a rich and velvety cheese sauce.
The mac and cheese is then combined with cooked elbow macaroni (or your pasta of choice) and, if you’re using it, crumbled crispy bacon. Once the mixture is well combined, it’s transferred to a baking pan and chilled for several hours to firm up. This step is essential, as it helps the mac and cheese hold its shape when it’s formed into balls later on.
Once chilled, the mac and cheese is cut into bite-sized pieces, which are then dipped in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Freezing the balls before frying is crucial to ensure that they don’t fall apart while frying. Once the oil is heated, the mac and cheese balls are deep-fried to golden perfection, giving you that crispy exterior with a cheesy, gooey center.
Perfect Pairings and Dips
While these deep-fried mac and cheese balls are delicious on their own, they’re even better when paired with your favorite dipping sauces. A classic marinara sauce can add a nice tang, while ranch or blue cheese dressing complements the richness of the cheese. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sriracha mayo or a spicy aioli makes for an excellent accompaniment.
Why These Mac and Cheese Balls Are a Must-Try
What makes deep-fried mac and cheese balls so irresistible? It’s the fusion of textures and flavors. The creamy, cheesy filling combines with the crispy, golden-brown outer layer to create a delightful contrast in every bite. And let’s not forget the smoky flavor of bacon – though optional, it enhances the overall dish and adds an extra savory kick that takes the flavor profile to new heights.
These mac and cheese bites are incredibly versatile, too. While they make an excellent appetizer or snack, they can also serve as a hearty side dish. You can even prepare them in advance, store them in the freezer, and fry them up whenever the craving strikes. They’re perfect for game day, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in a delicious treat.
Making These Mac and Cheese Balls Ahead of Time
One of the great things about this recipe is that you can make it in advance. Once the mac and cheese mixture is prepared and refrigerated, you can easily freeze the balls until you’re ready to fry them. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or for serving at parties where you want to have everything ready ahead of time. If you’re freezing the balls, just be sure to fry them from frozen – they’ll take a minute or two longer to cook but will turn out just as crispy and delicious.
Nutritional Information and Modifications
Though deep-fried mac and cheese balls are undoubtedly a decadent dish, there are ways to make them a little healthier without sacrificing flavor. For example, using whole wheat breadcrumbs or opting for a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella can reduce the fat content without compromising on taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon and still enjoy a deliciously rich mac and cheese ball.
In terms of nutritional value, each mac and cheese ball contains about 156 calories, with 12 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of protein, and 9 grams of fat. While they are undeniably a treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deep-fried mac and cheese balls are the epitome of comfort food. With their rich, creamy filling and crispy, golden exterior, they’re a fun twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself to a delicious snack, these bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re customizable, easy to make in advance, and most importantly, absolutely delicious. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – you’ll be glad you did.