Golden, cheesy, and irresistibly crunchy — these fried mac and cheese balls are the ultimate snack or party appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy & Comforting – Creamy mac and cheese inside a crispy, golden exterior.

• Perfect Party Snack – Bite-sized and easy to serve.

• Customizable – Add bacon bits, jalapeños, or different cheeses for a twist.

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill before frying to save time when entertaining.

Ingredients

Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Coating & Frying

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Combine with Pasta

Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni until fully coated. Transfer to a baking dish and refrigerate at least 2 hours or until firm.

Step 3: Form Balls

Scoop chilled mac and cheese into 1–2 inch balls and roll evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Balls

Coat each ball in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs. Repeat for all balls.

Step 5: Fry

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 175°C (350°F). Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese Options – Mix mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.

• Add-Ins – Fold in cooked bacon, jalapeños, or green onions before chilling.

• Air Fryer Option – Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes for a lighter version.

• Make Ahead – Freeze the formed balls before coating for quick frying later.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden, flipping halfway.

2. How do I prevent them from falling apart while frying?
Chill the mac and cheese balls for at least 2 hours to firm up, and make sure to coat evenly with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.

3. Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! Form and coat the balls, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Fry straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort snack — creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crunchy. Ideal for parties, game days, or whenever you need a satisfying bite of cheesy goodness.