Mac & Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food that encapsulates the beloved flavors of macaroni and cheese into a bite-sized snack. Perfect for parties, game days, or simply satisfying your cravings, these cheesy snacks are sure to be a hit among both kids and adults. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy center, they are a delicious twist on traditional mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale:
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking continuously. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted. Incorporate the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Let it cool for about 30 minutes.
Once cooled, scoop out portions of the mac and cheese mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Set up three bowls: one with 1/2 cup flour, one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
Dip each mac and cheese ball into the flour, then into the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You need enough oil to submerge the bites.
Carefully place a few mac and cheese bites in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
