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Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls
5 from 21 votes

Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls

Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls transform leftover chilled mac and cheese into golden, crunchy fried bites with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Coated in an egg wash and panko breadcrumbs, they develop a crisp exterior while maintaining a creamy cheese interior. This recipe emphasizes proper coating and frying technique for optimal texture.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Additional Time
30 mins
Total Time
2 hrs 10 mins
Servings: 15 balls
Calories: 225 kcal
Course: Side Dish, Main Course, Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Mac and Cheese chilled, leftover
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese or more, shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese or more, shredded
  • 2 egg
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups bread crumbs or panko bread crumbs
  • neutral cooking oil for frying, generic cooking oil

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Refrigerate the mac and cheese for 3-4 hours before using it in this recipe.
  2. Add it to a large bowl, and stir the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. If the texture is still a bit runny, add more cheese of choice. The mac and cheese should be firm and consistent enough to roll into balls easily.
  3. In a medium shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In another bowl, add the bread crumbs and set them aside.
  4. Using an ice cream scoop, scoop and roll out about 15 balls. The number depends on the size of the balls.
  5. Next, dip each ball into the egg wash and then dredge it in breadcrumbs, coating evenly. Place the balls on a cutting board or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  7. Then, add the balls to the Dutch oven and cook for about 4 minutes until evenly golden and crispy. Work in batches.
  8. After that, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs or mix them with regular breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier coating.
  • Maintain frying oil at 350°F and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even, crispy cooking.
  • Grate cheese fresh to improve melting and texture; rinse and dry pre-shredded cheese if used.
  • Use leftover mac and cheese chilled at least three hours for firm shaping; press into squares if desired.
  • If a cookie scoop is unavailable, shaping by hand is acceptable.

Nutrition Information

Calories 225kcal (11%) Carbohydrates 25g (8%) Protein 11g (22%) Fat 9g (14%) Saturated Fat 3g (15%) Cholesterol 35mg (12%) Sodium 500mg (21%) Potassium 113mg (2%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 1g (2%) Vitamin A 164IU (3%) Calcium 210mg (21%) Iron 2mg (11%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 15 balls

Amount Per Serving

Calories 225

% Daily Value*

Calories 225kcal 11%
Carbohydrates 25g 8%
Protein 11g 22%
Fat 9g 14%
Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Cholesterol 35mg 12%
Sodium 500mg 21%
Potassium 113mg 2%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 1g 2%
Vitamin A 164IU 3%
Calcium 210mg 21%
Iron 2mg 11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.