Fried Mac & Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food snack. These crispy bites combine gooey macaroni and cheese with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a golden, crunchy coating. The cheese sauce, made from sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creates a rich and creamy filling, while the breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. These bites are perfect for serving at parties, game day gatherings, or even as a fun snack for family movie night. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a tangy BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
Fried Mac & Cheese Bites are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. These crispy, cheesy bites are a delightful combination of creamy macaroni and cheese, bacon, and a golden breadcrumb coating. They’re easy to make, and with their irresistible flavor and crunch, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious bites.
INGREDIENTS
- Elbow Macaroni: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni forms the base of this dish, providing the classic macaroni shape that holds the creamy cheese sauce.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of butter is melted to start the cheese sauce, adding richness and depth to the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour is used to create a roux, thickening the cheese sauce to a creamy consistency.
- Whole Milk: 1 cup of whole milk adds creaminess to the cheese sauce and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese brings bold, cheesy flavor to the mac and cheese mixture.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese adds a stretchy, melty texture to the mixture.
- Bacon: 4 slices of cooked and chopped bacon give the bites a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesy filling.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for a balanced flavor in the cheese sauce.
- Eggs: 2 large beaten eggs are used to coat the mac and cheese bites, helping the breadcrumbs stick and providing a crispy outer layer when fried.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of breadcrumbs gives these bites a crunchy texture when fried, sealing in the cheesy goodness.
- Vegetable Oil: Enough oil for frying, heated to 375°F (190°C), ensures the bites come out golden and crispy.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
- Cook 8 ounces of elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
- Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens.
- Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat and add 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the roux. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Combine Macaroni and Bacon
- Mix the cooked macaroni and 4 slices of chopped bacon into the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
- Step 5: Shape the Mac & Cheese Bites
- Once the mixture is firm, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mac and cheese mixture and shape it into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Bread the Bites
- Dip each mac and cheese ball into beaten eggs, then roll them in 1 cup of breadcrumbs until they are fully coated. Repeat this process for all of the mac and cheese balls.
- Step 7: Fry the Bites
- Heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches, cooking each batch for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the fryer.
- Step 8: Drain and Serve
- Remove the mac and cheese bites from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara or ranch.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Fried Mac & Cheese Bites warm and crispy, right after frying. They pair well with dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or even a tangy BBQ sauce.
- These bites are perfect for game days, parties, or as an indulgent snack for family movie night. They’re a fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer that both kids and adults will love.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
- These mac and cheese bites can also be frozen. Freeze the coated, uncooked bites on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap out the sharp cheddar for another cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, to add a new twist to the bites.
- Feel free to omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of the mac and cheese bites. You can also add vegetables like finely chopped broccoli or spinach to the mac and cheese mixture for a healthier option.
- If you're looking for an extra-crispy coating, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Ina Garten: Make sure to refrigerate the mac and cheese mixture before forming the bites, as it helps them hold their shape while frying.
- Gordon Ramsay: Season each layer of the dish well. A little extra salt and pepper in the cheese sauce will elevate the flavor.
- Rachael Ray: For a fun twist, try adding hot sauce or mustard powder to the cheese sauce to give the bites a little kick.