Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Featured in Delightful Bites & Starters.

These fried mac and cheese balls are a hit for any occasion, offering a crunchy shell surrounding rich, creamy macaroni and cheese. Shaped into bite-sized morsels, they’re dipped in egg, coated in panko bread crumbs, and fried until perfectly golden. The result is a mouthwatering combination of textures and cheesy goodness. Enjoy them warm with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a savory snack, these little bites please both kids and adults with their satisfying crunch and creamy center.

Rehan Magic House Recipes
Updated on Fri, 04 Jul 2025 15:31:17 GMT
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Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate way to turn creamy comfort food into a crispy, party-ready treat everyone loves. Imagine bites of gooey mac and cheese wrapped in a crunchy golden coating. These are always the first thing gone at gatherings in my house.

When I first served these at a game day party my friends literally asked for the recipe on the spot. Now I keep them in my freezer for impromptu guests or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

  • Macaroni and cheese: homemade or store bought It serves as the flavorful cheesy base Try to select a version with a strong cheddar taste for best results
  • Panko bread crumbs: gives the exterior that extra crispiness over regular bread crumbs Choose fresh Panko if possible for maximum crunch
  • Large eggs: these help the breading stick to the mac and cheese Use the freshest eggs you can find for easy whisking
  • Milk: just a splash helps thin out the egg mixture making coating easier I usually reach for whole milk for richness
  • Vegetable oil: for frying Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point I prefer canola or sunflower for this recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chill and Shape the Mac and Cheese:
Make sure your mac and cheese is completely cooled so it holds its shape Scoop portions about one and a half inches wide and roll them into balls Then arrange them in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet
Freeze the Balls:
After forming all your balls pop the tray into the freezer for twenty minutes This helps them firm up and makes breading much easier
Prepare the Breading Station:
In one shallow bowl whisk together the eggs with the milk until combined In another shallow bowl spread the Panko bread crumbs
Coat the Balls:
Dip each chilled mac and cheese ball first into the egg mixture completely coating it Next roll it in the Panko pressing gently to stick Repeat with all the balls
Fry the Balls:
Pour at least two inches of vegetable oil into a heavy saucepan or Dutch oven Heat to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Test the temperature with a thermometer or drop a bread crumb in it should sizzle Right before frying remove the balls from the freezer Work in batches frying each for two to three minutes until uniformly golden brown
Drain and Serve:
Once fried place the balls on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess oil Let them cool slightly then serve while still warm with your favorite dipping sauces
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My favorite ingredient is Panko bread crumbs I have tested so many coatings and nothing compares to the light crispiness Panko delivers Last Christmas my family snacked on these while unwrapping gifts and everyone said they wished I made a double batch

Storage Tips

To store leftovers let them cool completely before sealing in an airtight container Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag They reheat best in a hot oven or air fryer both from chilled or frozen

Ingredient Substitutions

No Panko on hand Use crushed cornflakes or plain breadcrumbs though the texture will be less airy For a dairy free twist substitute your favorite plant based mac and cheese and use non dairy milk in the egg wash

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Serving Suggestions

Serve with a range of dips from classic marinara to spicy sriracha mayo I love a smoky chipotle aioli or even a tangy ranch Try setting out a platter with three or four sauces to please every palate

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of macaroni and cheese works best?

Homemade or store-bought macaroni and cheese with a thick, creamy consistency allows the balls to hold their shape and fry well.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can bake the balls at 400°F on a lined baking sheet until golden, though frying yields a crispier texture.

→ What oil is recommended for frying?

Vegetable oil is ideal due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor for deep-frying these appetizers.

→ How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?

Freezing the shaped mac and cheese balls before breading and frying helps them maintain their structure while cooking.

→ What are the best dipping sauces?

Popular options include marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli. Choose your favorite savory sauce to complement the cheesy bites.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Golden, crispy mac and cheese balls are an ideal savory appetizer for gatherings or family treats.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
3 Minutes
Total Time
33 Minutes
By: Reham


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 3 cups macaroni and cheese, homemade or store-bought
02 Vegetable oil for frying
03 2 cups panko bread crumbs
04 2 large eggs
05 1/4 cup milk

Instructions

Step 01

Cool the macaroni and cheese. Scoop into 1.5-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 20 minutes.

Step 02

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Place the panko bread crumbs in a separate shallow bowl.

Step 03

Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg mixture, then coat with the panko bread crumbs. Repeat until all balls are coated.

Step 04

In a large frying pan or saucepan, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to approximately 350°F.

Step 05

Working in batches, fry the mac and cheese balls in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 06

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!

Notes

  1. For best results, ensure that the mac and cheese balls are fully frozen before frying to maintain their shape.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Shallow bowls
  • Large frying pan or saucepan
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (in panko bread crumbs)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 275.5
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 32 g
  • Protein: 7.5 g