Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls
Golden-fried mac and cheese bites made from store-bought mac and cheese, shaped, breaded, and deep-fried until crispy. Serve with ketchup and mayo for dunking.
- Total time
- 20 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 420
- Protein
- 12g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Spread cooked mac and cheese on a plate and refrigerate 10 minutes until firm enough to scoop.
Step 2
Set up three shallow bowls: flour in one, whisked eggs in another, panko in the third.
Step 3
Scoop mac and cheese into 1.5-inch balls. Roll each in flour, then egg, then panko until fully coated.
Step 4
Heat oil in a heavy pot to 350°F. Test with a breadcrumb—it should sizzle and brown in 60 seconds.
Step 5
Fry mac and cheese balls in batches, 2–3 minutes per batch, until golden brown all over.
Step 6
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with ketchup and mayonnaise for dipping.
Tools you’ll need
- shallow bowls (3)
- heavy-bottomed pot (2-quart minimum)
- instant-read thermometer or candy thermometer
- slotted spoon or spider strainer
- paper towels
- ice-cream scoop or small spoon
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