Fried Mac & Cheese Bites – Crispy and Cheesy Perfection
Summary
If you love creamy, cheesy, and crispy delights, these Fried Mac & Cheese Bites will become your new obsession! They are golden and crunchy on the outside while remaining gooey and cheesy on the inside—a true comfort food masterpiece. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a fun snack, these bites are an irresistible crowd-pleaser. You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, and fry them whenever you crave a crispy, cheesy treat. With the perfect balance of flavor and texture, these homemade mac & cheese bites are better than any restaurant version!
Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Servings: 24 bites
- Calories per serving: ~150 kcal
Course & Cuisine
- Course: Appetizer, Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For Frying:
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Plastic wrap
- Knife or scoop
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mac & Cheese
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk for 1 minute until it forms a paste.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Lower the heat and add cheddar cheese, mozzarella, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni and stir until well coated.
