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Ultimate Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls (Deep Fried & Air Fryer Options)

Close-up of crispy, golden fried mac and cheese balls, one broken open showing melted cheese.
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Make the ultimate comfort food appetizer: crispy fried mac and cheese balls. These bites feature a crunchy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center. You can choose to deep fry them for maximum indulgence or use an air fryer for a lighter, yet still crispy, result. This recipe captures that popular restaurant-style flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (if not air frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mac and Cheese Base: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 1/3 cup flour and cook for one minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  2. Stir in the salt and sugar. Add the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.
  3. Chill the Mac and Cheese: Spread the mac and cheese mixture onto a plate or shallow dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until completely firm. This step is crucial for shaping the balls.
  4. Shape the Balls: Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the chilled mac and cheese mixture and roll it firmly between your palms to form a tight ball. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Set up the Breading Station: Place the 1/2 cup flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in a second dish, and the Panko bread crumbs in a third dish.
  6. Coat the Balls: Roll each mac and cheese ball first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it completely into the egg wash. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the Panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres well.
  7. Prepare for Cooking: Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet and chill them again for at least 30 minutes. This helps the coating set and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.
  8. Deep Fry Method: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop 3-4 balls into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  9. Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the breaded balls with cooking spray. Cook in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crunchy.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a Cheesecake Factory copycat version, use a blend of Gruyère, white cheddar, and mozzarella in the cheese sauce base.
  • You can make these ahead! Freeze the breaded balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • These cheesy bites are perfect served with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/fried-mac-and-cheese-balls-recipe/