Fried Mac & Cheese Bites Recipe

These crispy, golden-brown fried mac & cheese bites are the ultimate comfort food snack. With a crunchy coating and a creamy, cheesy center, they make the perfect appetizer for parties, game nights, or just a delicious indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Mac & Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp garlic powder

For Frying:

2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute until it turns golden. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.

3. Combine and Chill

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated. Pour the mac & cheese into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm enough to cut into bite-sized squares.

4. Bread the Bites

Once chilled, cut the mac & cheese into squares or roll them into balls. Set up a breading station with three bowls:

Flour mixture – combine flour, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Egg wash – whisk together eggs and milk.
Breadcrumbs – place panko in a separate bowl.

Dip each mac & cheese bite into the flour, then the egg wash, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Fry to Perfection

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mac & cheese bites in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.

Cooking Tips & Notes

Chilling is Key: The mac & cheese must be well chilled before cutting or shaping. This ensures they hold their shape when frying.
For Extra Crunch: Use double-breading by dipping the bites in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice for a thicker coating.
Baking Alternative: For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Make Ahead: Prepare and freeze the breaded bites for up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cook time.

Serving Suggestions

Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, spicy aioli, or honey mustard for added flavor.
Pairing Ideas: Enjoy alongside a crisp green salad, buffalo wings, or even a bowl of tomato soup for a fun comfort food meal.
Garnishing: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor and presentation.

These crispy, gooey mac & cheese bites are sure to be a crowd favorite—perfect for snacking, sharing, or keeping all to yourself!