Here’s a recipe for Fried Mac and Cheese — crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or indulgent side.
🧀 Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 20 min (plus chilling time)
Cook time: 10–15 min
Ingredients
For the mac and cheese:
- 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For frying:
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1–2 cups (100–200 g) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni:
- Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain.
- Make the mac and cheese:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in milk and cheese until creamy.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni, season with salt and pepper.
- Chill the mac and cheese:
- Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
- This makes it easier to shape for frying.
- Shape and bread:
- Scoop or cut the chilled mac and cheese into bite-sized balls or squares.
- Coat each piece in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Fry:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry mac and cheese bites in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
🧡 Tips & Variations
- Cheese mix: Use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Add-ins: Mix in bacon bits, jalapeños, or herbs before chilling.
- Oven-baked option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes instead of frying for a lighter version.
If you want, I can also give a super quick fried mac and cheese recipe that skips chilling and still stays crispy. Do you want me to do that?
