Mac and Cheese Bites are little balls of cheesy goodness, bringing comfort food to the next level! Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they are perfect for snacking.
These bites are super fun to make and eat! I love serving them at parties, but sometimes I just make a batch to enjoy while binge-watching my favorite show. Who can resist that cheesy melt? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese, giving that familiar shape and texture. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, any small pasta like shells or cavatappi works well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong, tangy flavor. For a different taste, you can combine cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère. You can also use vegan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are essential for that crunchy coating. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be as crispy. You can even crush some crackers as a fun twist!
Vegetable Oil: This is used for frying. You can substitute it with canola oil or peanut oil, as they both have a high smoke point. For a healthier option, try baking in the oven instead.
How Do I Get My Mac and Cheese Bites Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy exterior, the coating process is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your mac and cheese mixture is very cold before forming the balls. This helps them hold their shape when frying.
- First, roll each ball in flour to create a base layer that helps the egg coating stick.
- Next, dip the balls in beaten eggs to seal in moisture and help the breadcrumbs adhere properly.
- Finally, coat them in a mix of panko and Parmesan. Press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well.
- When frying, do it in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. This ensures they cook evenly and stay crispy.
Happy cooking! Your Mac and Cheese Bites will be a delicious hit.
Delicious Mac and Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- For Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., spicy mayo or ranch)
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus 2 hours chilling time in the refrigerator. You’ll also need around 10 minutes for frying. Altogether, you’ll spend about 2 hours and 20 minutes getting these tasty bites ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set aside for later.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and continue to whisk for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Slowly add the warmed milk while whisking. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes. When thickened, remove from heat and add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it.
3. Combine and Chill:
Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This is key for creating the bites!
4. Prepare for Coating:
When you’re ready to cook, prepare three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place some flour. In the second dish, beat the two large eggs. In the third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Shape the Bites:
Once your mac and cheese mixture is set, use a spoon or small cookie scoop to form bite-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches). Roll each ball in the flour first, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet as you go.
6. Fry the Bites:
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the mac and cheese bites in small batches to keep the oil hot. You want them to be golden brown and crispy—this should take about 2-3 minutes per batch. Once fried, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To finish off, garnish your crispy, golden mac and cheese bites with chopped parsley and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may differ from regular pasta.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Bites?
Yes, you can bake the mac and cheese bites! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mac and cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through for the best crispy texture.
Can I Freeze Mac and Cheese Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! After forming the balls but before frying, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be fried straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the cooking time!
