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–+ servings
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites: Crispy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a crispy, cheesy snack that brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bites
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bites
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Cook until al dente
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with margarine
  • 4 tablespoons Flour Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free version
  • 2 cups Milk Substitute with almond or oat milk for dairy-free
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder Omit if not preferred
  • 2 large Beaten Eggs Use flaxseed meal for a vegan option
  • 2 cups Bread Crumbs Use gluten-free bread crumbs if desired
  • as needed cups Oil (for frying) Vegetable or canola oil recommended
Optional Garnish
  • to taste Fresh Parsley
  • to taste Smoked Paprika

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • mixing bowl
  • Shallow pan
  • Fryer or deep skillet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Stir for about 2 minutes until golden.
  3. Gradually pour in milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until creamy.
  4. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a mixing bowl. Spread in a shallow pan, cover, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  5. Once firm, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
  6. Set up your breading station with beaten eggs and breadcrumbs. Dip each ball in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
  7. Fry the bites in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Garnish with parsley or smoked paprika before serving. Enjoy your Fried Mac and Cheese Bites hot and crispy!

Nutrition

Serving: 3bitesCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These bites can be made ahead of time and frozen for quick snacks later. Consider pairing with various dips like marinara or ranch.

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