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Mac and Cheese Balls

These mac and cheese balls combine the gooey goodness of classic macaroni and cheese with a crispy golden exterior, making them a perfect appetizer for any gathering.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 balls 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
  • 2 large eggs (for coating)
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Macaroni – Boil a large pot of water, add elbow macaroni, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce – Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk and whisk until thickened. Stir in cheese and seasonings until smooth.
  • Step 3: Combine and Chill the Mixture – In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Step 4: Form the Balls – Roll tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled mixture into balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
  • Step 5: Prepare the Coating – Set up three bowls: one with breadcrumbs, one with flour, and one with beaten eggs. Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, and roll in breadcrumbs.
  • Step 6: Frying the Mac and Cheese Balls – Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Fry balls in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  • Step 7: Serving Suggestions – Serve mac and cheese balls with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Chill the mixture adequately to maintain shape during frying.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Fried
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 130
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg