Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are a delicious combination of creamy, cheesy macaroni encased in a crispy, golden crust. I love how each bite delivers both comfort and crunch, making it the perfect appetizer or snack. This recipe transforms classic mac and cheese into a handheld treat that’s fun, indulgent, and sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like how simple yet irresistible these bites are. The creamy mac and cheese filling pairs perfectly with the crisp coating, creating a texture contrast that’s truly satisfying. I find that these bites are always a hit at parties or game nights, and they make for a fun twist on traditional comfort food. I can also prepare them ahead of time, making entertaining stress-free.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
3 eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
I cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
In a saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to form a roux.
Gradually, I add the milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
I stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Then, I add the cooked macaroni, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
I spread the mixture into a baking dish and refrigerate it for about 2 hours, or until firm.
Once chilled, I cut the mac and cheese into bite-sized pieces or shapes.
I set up three shallow dishes for breading—flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Each mac and cheese bite is dredged in flour, dipped in egg, and coated with breadcrumbs.
I heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
I fry the bites in small batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
Finally, I drain them on paper towels and serve them hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 24 bites and serves 6 people. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, chilling requires 2 hours, and frying takes about 15 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes.
Variations
I like to switch up the flavors by mixing in different cheeses such as gouda, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack. Sometimes, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a little heat. When I’m craving something herby, I stir in chopped chives or parsley before chilling. For a healthier version, I bake the bites at 400°F for about 20 minutes instead of frying them. And when cooking for gluten-free friends, I use gluten-free pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to enjoy them again, I reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes to bring back their crispy texture. If I’ve made a large batch, I freeze the uncooked, breaded bites on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They fry beautifully straight from frozen.
FAQs
Can I make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the mac and cheese mixture, chill it, cut it into bites, and bread them ahead of time. I usually keep them in the freezer until I’m ready to fry.
What oil is best for frying these bites?
I prefer using vegetable oil or canola oil because they have a high smoke point and a neutral flavor that lets the cheese shine.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, I bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They come out lighter but still crispy.
How do I prevent the bites from falling apart while frying?
I make sure the mac and cheese mixture is firm and well-chilled before cutting. Double-coating with breadcrumbs also helps the bites hold their shape.
What dips go well with Fried Mac and Cheese Bites?
I like serving them with marinara sauce, ranch, or a spicy aioli. Barbecue sauce also adds a nice smoky flavor.
Conclusion
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort snack—crispy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. I love serving them for parties or casual get-togethers because they’re always a crowd favorite. With endless variations and easy make-ahead options, they fit into any occasion. I enjoy pairing them with a refreshing drink and good company for a perfect bite-sized indulgence.
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, combining cheesy macaroni with a golden breaded crust. Perfect for parties or comfort food cravings, these handheld bites are an irresistible twist on classic mac and cheese.
Total Time:2 hours 35 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield:24 bites (serves 6)
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
3 eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour to form a roux.
Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened.
Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth and creamy.
Add cooked macaroni, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
Spread into a baking dish and refrigerate for 2 hours until firm.
Cut chilled mac and cheese into bite-sized pieces.
Set up breading stations with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Dredge each bite in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry bites in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
Use a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
For spice, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
To bake instead of fry, cook at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Use gluten-free pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Freeze breaded bites before frying for easy make-ahead prep.
