Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Balls

1. Add cold macaroni and cheese to a large bowl. Add the shredded cheese and mix it together. (Using your hands makes this job easier).
2. Scoop out mac and cheese and roll together to create a 2 inch ball and lay it on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Repeat the process with the remaining macaroni.
4. Add the flour, salt, pepper, onion powder and garlic to a shallow dish. Stir to combine.
5. In a separate shallow dish, add the eggs and beat them until smooth.
6. In a third shallow dish, add the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
7. Take each macaroni ball and roll it first in the flour.
8. Next, dip the ball into the beaten egg and allow the excess to drip off.
9. Then roll the ball into the breadcrumbs covering all areas.
10. Set the ball back onto the baking sheet.
11. Repeat this process with the remaining balls.
12. Cover and freeze for at least 30 minutes.

Fry the Balls

1. When ready to fry, remove the pan from the freezer while preparing the oil. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place a cooling rack on top.
2. Use a heavy-bottomed pan (such as a Dutch oven) and add vegetable oil so that it’s at least 3-4 inches deep. Attach a candy or oil thermometer to the pan and begin to heat the oil over high. Once the oil reaches a temperature of 360 degrees, gently lower 4-5 balls into the hot oil using a spider or tongs. (See Notes below)
3. Set a timer for 4 minutes and occasionally turn the balls with your utensil until the time is up. (If you notice the balls are browning too quickly, you may need to remove them from the oil early or they’ll burn.)
4. Remove the balls from the hot grease and place them on the cooling rack. Sprinkle with flaked sea salt and parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.