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Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

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These Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites take comfort food to the next level. Starting with a rich, homemade mac and cheese loaded with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and crispy bacon, each bite gets coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. The outside becomes amazingly crispy while the inside stays creamy and cheesy. What makes these special is the attention to detail - from using bacon grease in the cheese sauce for extra flavor, to the perfect blend of seasonings and two types of cheese. They're ideal for parties since you can make them ahead and fry just before serving. Each bite delivers the perfect combination of crunchy coating and creamy, cheesy center.
Soo Ben
Updated on Sat, 25 Jan 2025 01:26:17 GMT
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These indulgent mac and cheese bites combine creamy, cheesy pasta with a crispy panko coating for the perfect appetizer. The secret lies in properly chilling the mixture and maintaining consistent oil temperature while frying.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Elbow macaroni: Small shape works best
  • Sharp cheddar: Provides bold flavor
  • Monterey Jack: Melts smoothly
  • Panko: Creates crunchiest coating
  • Bacon: Adds smoky depth

Step-by-Step Method

Make Mac and Cheese

  • Create smooth roux
  • Add milk gradually
  • Melt cheese completely
  • Season thoughtfully
  • Cool thoroughly
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Homemade Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

Form and Coat

  • Shape cold mixture
  • Use wet hands
  • Double-coat in panko
  • Keep size consistent
  • Chill between steps

Perfect the Fry

  • Maintain oil temperature
  • Work in small batches
  • Turn gently
  • Drain properly
  • Keep warm if needed

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare through coating, freeze on tray, then transfer to freezer bags. Fry directly from frozen.

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Crispy Fried Homemade Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

After extensive testing, I've found that thorough chilling and proper oil temperature create the perfect balance of crispy exterior and creamy center.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these ahead?
Yes, prepare through breading and freeze up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen when ready to serve.
→ Why chill the mac and cheese first?
Chilling helps it firm up so you can cut neat squares or shape balls that hold together when breaded.
→ What oil is best for frying?
Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil - any neutral oil with a high smoke point works well.
→ Can I bake instead of fry?
While possible, frying gives the best crispy exterior. If baking, spray with oil and cook at 400°F.
→ How do I prevent cheese from leaking?
Make sure breading completely covers each piece and maintain proper oil temperature when frying.

Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites

Crispy breaded bites of homemade mac and cheese with bacon, fried until golden. The ultimate comfort food appetizer!

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
By: Sou


Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: American

Yield: 36 Servings (36 bites)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Mac and Cheese Base

01 284g bacon (about 14 strips), chopped
02 227g elbow macaroni
03 30g bacon grease or unsalted butter
04 16g all-purpose flour
05 270ml milk

→ Seasonings

06 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
07 ½ teaspoon black pepper
08 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
09 ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
10 ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

→ Cheese

11 227g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
12 227g Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

→ Breading

13 125g all-purpose flour
14 ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
15 ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
16 ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
17 2 large eggs, beaten
18 180g seasoned panko breadcrumbs
19 Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 01

Bake bacon at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until crispy. Chop and reserve 2 tablespoons grease.

Step 02

Cook macaroni for 7 minutes, drain and rinse with cold water.

Step 03

Make roux with bacon grease and flour. Add milk and seasonings, simmer 2 minutes. Stir in cheeses off heat.

Step 04

Mix sauce with pasta and bacon. Spread in lined 9x9 pan. Refrigerate 3 hours or overnight.

Step 05

Cut into 36 squares or scoop into balls. Coat in flour, egg, then panko. Freeze until ready to fry.

Step 06

Deep fry at 360-370°F for 4-5 minutes until golden. Drain and season with salt.

Notes

  1. Can be frozen up to 1 month before frying
  2. Base keeps in fridge up to 3 days
  3. Can fry from frozen state

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x9 inch baking pan
  • Deep fryer or heavy pot
  • Thermometer
  • Wire rack

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, milk)
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (flour, breadcrumbs)