Print

The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Fried Mac and Cheese Bites: A Crispy, Cheesy Revelation

The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Fried Mac and Cheese Bites: A Crispy, Cheesy Revelation
Print Recipe

If you love classic mac and cheese, these crispy fried bites take it to a whole new level! Creamy, cheesy centers with a crunchy golden coating—perfect for parties, snacking, or dipping in your favorite sauces. They’re surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Base

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Breading

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 3 eggs, beaten

  • 2 cups breadcrumbs

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente.

  2. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Add flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until thickened.

  4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.

  5. Add cooked macaroni, stirring to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Chill

  1. Spread the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish.

  2. Refrigerate for 2 hours, or until firm enough to cut.

4. Shape and Bread

  1. Cut the chilled mac and cheese into bite-sized squares (or use a cookie cutter for shapes).

  2. Prepare a breading station:

    • Dish 1: Flour

    • Dish 2: Beaten eggs

    • Dish 3: Breadcrumbs

  3. Coat each piece: flour → egg → breadcrumbs.

5. Fry

  1. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.

  2. Fry bites in batches for 3–4 minutes, flipping if needed, until golden and crispy.

  3. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

  • Chill the mac and cheese well—this helps the bites hold their shape during frying.

  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular.

  • Want more flavor? Add paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes to the breadcrumbs.

  • Freeze the shaped bites for 20 minutes before frying to prevent them from breaking apart.

  • Serve with marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-perfect-fried-mac-and-cheese-bites-a-crispy-cheesy-revelation/