Macaroni and Cheese Bites
Crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, these irresistible Macaroni and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food snack! Perfectly blending creamy sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese with tender elbow macaroni, these bite-sized delights are coated in crunchy breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. The recipe features an easy homemade cheese sauce seasoned with a touch of garlic powder for added flavor, while quick chilling ensures the mixture stays firm for shaping. Ready in under an hour, these cheesy bites are perfect for parties, game day, or as a fun appetizer. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like marinara or ranch, for a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re craving a crispy mac and cheese twist or planning your next party menu, these Macaroni and Cheese Bites will not disappoint!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually add the milk to the saucepan while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a shallow dish or baking tray and let it cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or until firm).
Once firm, scoop small portions of the macaroni and cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into bite-sized balls.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs, and one empty plate for the finished bites.
Dip each macaroni and cheese ball into the beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Repeat this process until all balls are breaded and set them aside on a plate.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Carefully fry the macaroni and cheese bites in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve the macaroni and cheese bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1047 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 98.2 g | 126% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.6 g | 113% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 113 mg | 38% | |
| Sodium | 576 mg | 25% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.3 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 17.9 g | 36% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 348 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 160 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
