Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Name: Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a deliciously crispy treat that combines gooey macaroni and cheese with a crunchy exterior, perfect as an appetizer or snack.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:21:07.006Z

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food taken to the next level. These bites are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, making them a perfect party snack or game day treat. The combination of creamy macaroni and cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden brown is simply irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, golden exterior with a creamy, cheesy interior
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings
A fun twist on classic macaroni and cheese

      

The Perfect Appetizer

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are not just any appetizer; they are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will impress your guests. The crispy outside contrasts perfectly with the gooey, cheesy interior, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you are hosting a party or simply enjoying a movie night at home, these bites are sure to be a hit.

These bites are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your preferences or the theme of your gathering. Make them ahead of time and freeze them for a quick snack later!

A Kid-Friendly Snack

If you're looking for a way to get kids excited about dinner, look no further than these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites. This recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a fun and bite-sized snack that kids will love. The cheesy goodness is sure to appeal to even the pickiest eaters, and they can even help roll the bites into balls, making it a fun cooking activity together.

Additionally, these bites can be made in larger batches and stored in the freezer. You can quickly reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick and satisfying snack after school or during playdates. It's an easy way to ensure that you have a delicious and nutritious option on hand.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Fried Mac and Cheese Bites turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips. First, don't skip the chilling step! Allowing the mac and cheese mixture to firm up in the refrigerator is crucial for shaping the bites and preventing them from falling apart during frying. For best results, chill the mixture overnight if you have the time.

When frying, be sure to use enough oil to fully submerge the bites, which will help them cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown color. Cooking them in small batches also ensures that the oil temperature stays consistent, resulting in perfectly crispy bites every time. Remember to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Breading and Frying

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Oil for frying

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Combine with cooked macaroni and mix well.

Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Prepare for Frying

Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the mac and cheese mixture and roll into balls. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.

Bread the Bites

Dredge each ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure they are well-covered.

Fry the Bites

In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites!

These bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to prepare these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites in advance, storing them is easy. Place the cooled bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Arrange the unbreaded bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes from frozen or 5-7 minutes if thawed. This will help maintain their crispy exterior while warming the cheesy center. You can also use an air fryer for even quicker reheating.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, consider mixing in other types of cheese for a different flavor profile. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack can add a fun twist. You might also incorporate ingredients like cooked bacon, jalapeños, or spinach for extra flavor and texture.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko. You can also use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix for the coating. These simple swaps allow everyone to enjoy this tasty snack, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese mixture a day in advance and chill it. Just bread and fry them when you're ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces go well with Fried Mac and Cheese Bites?

These bites pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

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

→ What cheese can I use for the mac and cheese?

While cheddar is classic, you can mix in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.