Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls – The Ultimate Party Snack

Ah, Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls! Just the thought of them sends my taste buds tingling with excitement! There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a bite into these crunchy little nuggets, only to unveil the creamy, cheesy goodness hidden inside. I’ve got fond memories of making these with my friends on movie nights or during the holidays when we’d gather around the couch with an endless supply of snacks and laughter. It’s hard to believe something so delicious can also carry such nostalgia!

What truly sets these Mac and Cheese Balls apart, aside from their incredible flavor and texture, is how versatile they are. You can whip them up for a party, serve them as a side dish, or even enjoy them as a late-night snack (trust me, I’ve done all three!). So, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a guilty pleasure, these little bites will surely impress!

What’s in Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls?

Now, let’s break down the ingredients that make this delectable dish:

Macaroni Pasta: The classic base of any mac and cheese! I recommend using elbow macaroni; its small size pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Cheddar Cheese: This is where the magic happens. A good quality sharp cheddar gives it a lovely melty texture and rich flavor. I sometimes mix in a bit of mozzarella for extra stretchiness!

Milk: Essential for creating that smooth, creamy sauce. Whole milk works wonderfully here, but feel free to use what you have on hand.

Butter: Always adds a comforting richness. I usually opt for unsalted so I can control the seasoning.

Breadcrumbs: The secret to that perfect crunch! I love using panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunchiness; they really elevate the texture.

Eggs: These are crucial for binding everything together. They help the mac and cheese balls hold their shape when frying.

Seasonings: I like to add a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to keep things flavorful. You can adjust the spices to your liking; don’t be shy!

Is Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls Good for You?

While these little bites are undeniably delish, let’s chat about the health aspect. They’re not exactly a salad, but they can bring a bit of joy to your eating experience!

Macaroni: While pasta is a source of carbs, it can provide energy – and in moderation, that’s perfectly okay!

Cheddar Cheese: Cheese can be high in fat and calories, but it also brings protein and calcium to the table. Balance is key!

Breadcrumbs: Depending on the type you use, breadcrumbs can add some fiber to the dish, but they can also have added sugars or preservatives, so check the labels!

Keep in mind, these are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular staple. Moderation is the name of the game, and trust me, they’re worth every calorie on special occasions!

Ingredients

– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying (vegetable or canola work great)

*Servings: About 20 balls*

How to Make Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls?

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

3. **Combine:** Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix until all the pasta is well-coated.

4. **Chill:** Cover the mixture and let it cool in the refrigerator for at least an hour to help it firm up.

5. **Form the Balls:** Once the mixture is chilled, scoop out a tablespoon-sized amount and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

6. **Prepare for Frying:** Set up a breading station by placing the panko breadcrumbs in one bowl and whisking the eggs in another. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.

7. **Fry:** Heat about two cups of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once hot (you can test it by dropping a breadcrumb in – if it sizzles, it’s ready!), carefully add a few balls at a time and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.

8. **Drain:** Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Time for a Party! Tips and Variations

– **Make Ahead:** You can absolutely make these in advance! Prepare everything up to the frying stage, and freeze the uncooked balls. Then, fry them straight from frozen when you’re ready for a snack!

– **Flavor Variations:** Feel free to spice things up with different cheeses or mix in ingredients like crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or even smoked paprika for a kick!

– **Serving Suggestions:** Serve them with a side of ranch or marinara sauce for dipping—yum! They’re perfect as an appetizer for parties or just a fun treat for a cozy movie night.

So, there you have it—my fun and delicious take on Crispy Fried Mac And Cheese Balls! I can’t wait for you to whip these up and share in the joy they bring. Be sure to let me know how yours turn out — happy frying!