Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Name: Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a deliciously addictive snack that combines the comfort of creamy mac and cheese with a crispy, golden coating. Perfect for parties or as a fun appetizer!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:36:48.328Z

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food. The creamy interior is perfectly contrasted by a crunchy exterior, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy outside, gooey inside – the perfect texture combination
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
Great for using up leftover mac and cheese

      

The Ultimate Comfort Food

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites take the beloved comfort food to another level. The creamy, cheesy filling is encased in a crunchy golden shell, creating a delightful contrast of textures. This dish brings together the richness of macaroni and cheese with the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried snack. Whether you're serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a late-night treat, these bites are sure to satisfy your cravings.

The appeal of mac and cheese is universal; it evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth. By transforming it into bite-sized pieces, you not only enhance the experience but also create a fun and portable option for sharing. These bites are perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. Plus, they are an excellent way to impress your friends with minimal effort!

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Fried Mac and Cheese Bites is their versatility. They can be served as a hearty appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course alongside a fresh salad. Their small size makes them easy to enjoy while mingling, making them a hit at any event. Pair them with a range of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or spicy sriracha, to cater to different taste preferences and elevate the snacking experience.

Additionally, these bites are perfect for using up leftover mac and cheese. Instead of letting those extra servings go to waste, you can repurpose them into a delicious and crispy snack. This not only minimizes food waste but also allows you to enjoy your favorite dish in a new and exciting way.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Fried Mac and Cheese Bites, it's essential to ensure that the mac and cheese mixture is thoroughly chilled before shaping. This step helps the bites hold their shape during frying. If you're short on time, you can place the mac and cheese in the freezer for about 30 minutes to speed up the cooling process.

When frying, be mindful of the oil temperature. Using a thermometer can help you maintain the ideal frying temperature of 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bites cook evenly and develop that perfect golden color. Fry in small batches to prevent the temperature from dropping too low, which can result in soggy bites.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

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

For the Breading

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Make sure to prepare the macaroni and cheese first and let it cool before proceeding to the next steps.

Instructions

Prepare the Mac and Cheese

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, then add cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and combined. Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix thoroughly.

Cool the Mixture

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.

Form the Bites

Once the mac and cheese is chilled, scoop out portions and roll them into balls or bite-sized shapes.

Bread the Bites

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese bite first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Bites

In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve

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

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare and bread the bites ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or freeze them for later use. Just remember to fry them straight from the fridge or freezer, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

What dipping sauces pair well with these bites? The beauty of Fried Mac and Cheese Bites is their adaptability. Classic choices include marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a tangy ranch dressing. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, try serving them with sriracha or a spicy chipotle mayo.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftover Fried Mac and Cheese Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispy texture, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method will help restore some of the crunchiness lost during storage.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked bites. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them from frozen in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?

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