Description
Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites are a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy macaroni and cheese formed into bite-sized balls, coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, and fried or baked to golden perfection. These cheesy snacks are perfect for parties or casual gatherings and can be customized with added flavors like bacon or jalapeños.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked macaroni pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Cooking
- Vegetable oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste, then slowly whisk in the milk. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy mixture.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish or tray, spreading it into an even layer. Allow it to cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the mixture firms up and is easier to shape.
- Form Bites: Once chilled, scoop portions of the mac and cheese and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands.
- Coat the Bites: Dip each ball into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs to create a crunchy outer layer.
- Fry the Bites: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the bites in batches for 2–3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
- Alternative Baking Method: For a lighter version, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated bites on a baking sheet lined with cooking spray, bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.
Notes
- Add crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or cooked sausage to the mac and cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- These bites can be frozen after breading and fried straight from frozen for convenience.
- Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
