This recipe turns leftover mac and cheese into small fried bites. You form the mixture into balls, coat them, and fry until golden. The result is crispy, cheesy, and warm. The steps are simple and fast.
Why make this recipe
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites give you a crunchy outside and a gooey inside. They are easy to make and work as a snack, party food, or quick treat. Kids and adults both like them. If you like other mac and cheese twists, check this smoked mac and cheese recipe for more ideas.
How to make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Make the bites in a few steps. First mix your cooked macaroni and cheese well so it holds together. Shape the mix into small balls. Coat each ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until each bite is golden on all sides. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni and cheese.
- Form the mixture into small balls or bites.
- Dip each bite in flour, then beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the mac and cheese bites until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm.
How to serve Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Serve them hot or warm. They go well with ketchup, ranch, or a spicy mayo. Place them on a plate with a small bowl of dip. For other small bites that pair well with dips, see these egg bites with cottage cheese for serving ideas.
How to store Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Let the bites cool fully. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. Avoid reheating in the microwave if you want crisp texture.
Tips to make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
- Use cold mac and cheese so the balls hold shape.
- Press the balls tight so they do not fall apart in the oil.
- Keep oil at medium heat to cook inside without burning outside.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Freeze shaped bites on a tray, then store in a bag for easy frying later.
Variation
- Add small pieces of bacon or ham into the mix for extra flavor.
- Mix in spices like paprika, garlic powder, or chopped herbs.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy bite.
- Bake instead of frying for a lighter version: spray with oil and bake at 400°F until golden.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I make these without frying?
A: Yes. Bake them at 400°F on a greased sheet for 10–15 minutes, turning once, until golden.
Q: Can I use fresh mac and cheese?
A: You can, but chilled or slightly firm mac and cheese shapes better. Cool it first.
Q: How do I prevent the bites from breaking?
A: Press them tightly when forming and chill for 15–30 minutes before coating and frying.
Q: Can I freeze them before frying?
A: Yes. Freeze on a tray until firm, then store in a bag. Fry from frozen, adding a minute or two to cook time.
Conclusion
For a crunchy, cheesy treat with deep-fried texture, try this simple recipe and compare ideas from other cooks like Crispy Fried Homemade Mac and Cheese Bites – MikeBakesNYC to get more tips. You can also see another take on fried mac and cheese from Fried Mac and Cheese Balls – Take Two Tapas for more inspiration.
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni Use leftover macaroni for best results.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) Choose your favorite cheese for flavor.
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
- Oil for frying Oil for frying Use enough oil to submerge the bites.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni and cheese.
- Form the mixture into small balls or bites.
- Dip each bite in flour, then beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the mac and cheese bites until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels.