Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
These Fried Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and perfect for sharing.
They’re an easy way to turn leftover creamy mac and cheese into a delicious appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
I like adding a little extra cheese to the center before coating the bites in seasoned breadcrumbs. Once fried, the outside becomes beautifully golden while the inside stays soft and cheesy.
Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping or enjoy them on their own. They’re great for parties, game days, and whenever you have leftover macaroni and cheese in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Best Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Use cold mac and cheese. Chilled macaroni and cheese is much easier to shape than freshly cooked pasta. A thick, creamy mac and cheese works best.
Add extra cheese. I like placing a little shredded cheddar and mozzarella in the center for an extra cheesy filling.
Chill before frying. Refrigerating or briefly freezing the shaped bites helps them hold together during frying.
Coat them evenly. Make sure each bite is completely covered with flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.
Keep the oil at 350°F. This helps the breadcrumbs become crispy without absorbing too much oil.
Fry in batches. Adding too many bites at once lowers the oil temperature and can make the coating greasy. I recommend frying about 3-4 at a time for best consistency.
Serve immediately. These bites are best enjoyed warm while the outside is crispy and the cheese is soft.
What to Serve with Mac and Cheese Bites
I usually serve these bites with marinara sauce, but there are plenty of other delicious options.
Marinara sauce: The tomato flavor balances the richness of the cheese.
Ranch dressing: A creamy dipping sauce that works well with the crispy coating.
Spicy mayo: A great option if you enjoy a little heat.
Southern Fried chicken: Pair the bites with crispy fried chicken for a comforting meal.
Fresh salad: A simple green salad provides a lighter contrast to the rich, cheesy bites.
How To Make Them
Making these Fried Mac and Cheese Bites is pretty simple, especially if you already have leftover mac and cheese. Here’s how to make them step by step. Video recipes can be found here on our YouTube channel.
Fried Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
Equipment
- Deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Three shallow bowls
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Wire rack or paper towels
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese; chilled and prepared to your desired taste and texture
- 1 cup shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese; combined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup water; for egg wash
- 1 cup fine seasoned breadcrumbs
- About 4 cups neutral oil; for deep frying (actual amount depends on pot size)
- Marinara sauce; for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese. Make sure your cooked mac and cheese has cooled completely and is firm enough to shape. Refrigerate it beforehand if necessary. This will help with shaping them into mac and cheese balls.Shape the bites. Divide the macaroni and cheese into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion slightly, add some shredded cheddar and mozzarella to the center, and carefully shape into a compact ball, enclosing the cheese.Chill. Arrange the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm.Prepare the coating. Place the flour in one shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk the egg with ¼ cup water. Add the seasoned breadcrumbs to a third bowl.Bread the bites. Roll each mac and cheese bite in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Press gently so the coating adheres.Heat the oil. Add oil to a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, keeping the pot no more than halfway full. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry until golden. Carefully lower a few bites into the hot oil. Fry for approximately 2–3 minutes, turning as needed, until crispy and golden brown. Make sure the centers reach 165°F.Drain. Remove the bites using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining bites, allowing the oil to return to 350°F between batches.Serve. Enjoy immediately with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
