Crispy Fried Mac & Cheese Bites –

by

Crispy Fried Mac & Cheese Bites – The Ultimate Party Snack

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 36 minutes (plus 8 hours chilling)
Serves: 6 to 8 (as an appetizer)

Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these ultra-crispy Fried Mac & Cheese Bites! Golden on the outside and decadently creamy on the inside, these bites deliver everything you love about mac and cheese—but in an irresistible, crunchy, finger-friendly form. Perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you need a snack that wows, these little bites are packed with bold flavors and serious texture.

From the velvety cheese sauce to the lightly spiced breadcrumb coating, every bite is pure bliss. And the best part? They’re easy to make ahead—just chill the mac overnight, cut into cubes, coat, and fry.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 3/4 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add mustard powder and nutmeg. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thick and smooth.

3. Add the Cheese

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and whisk until completely melted and velvety. Turn off the heat.

4. Combine & Chill

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and smooth the top. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight until firm.

5. Cut Into Bites

Once fully chilled, carefully remove the mac and cheese from the pan. Cut into 1.5–2 inch squares (bite-sized pieces work best for frying).

6. Bread the Bites

In one bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and cayenne pepper. Dip each cube into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure an even coating.

7. Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the bites in small batches for 2–3 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

8. Serve Hot

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces—like ranch, spicy ketchup, or creamy garlic aioli.

Optional Add-Ins

  • Garlic & Herb: Stir finely chopped herbs (like chives, parsley, or thyme) and a dash of garlic powder into the cheese sauce.
  • Smoky Twist: A touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder adds depth and warmth.
  • These Fried Mac & Cheese Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy, cheesy, flavorful, and completely addictive. Make them once, and they’ll become your go-to appetizer for every event!

Leave a Comment