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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
Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls
indulgentquickamericanvegetariancheesecrispycreamymelty

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Spread cooked mac and cheese on a plate and refrigerate 10 minutes until firm enough to scoop.

  2. Step 2

    Set up three shallow bowls: flour in one, whisked eggs in another, panko in the third.

  3. Step 3

    Scoop mac and cheese into 1.5-inch balls. Roll each in flour, then egg, then panko until fully coated.

  4. Step 4

    Heat oil in a heavy pot to 350°F. Test with a breadcrumb—it should sizzle and brown in 60 seconds.

  5. Step 5

    Fry mac and cheese balls in batches, 2–3 minutes per batch, until golden brown all over.

  6. 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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