Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls: The Ultimate Leftover Makeover Appetizer
Do you ever find yourself with a container of leftover mac and cheese, wondering how to give it a new lease on life? Look no further! This ingenious recipe transforms ordinary mac and cheese into extraordinary, golden-brown, crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls. It’s a culinary magic trick that takes a beloved comfort food and elevates it to a gourmet appetizer, perfect for entertaining guests or simply indulging in a decadent snack. While some families might claim “no such thing as mac and cheese leftovers,” if you’re planning these delightful bites, you’ll want to intentionally make extra!
These aren’t just any fried cheese balls; they are an explosion of texture and flavor. Imagine a perfectly crispy, golden exterior giving way to a warm, gooey, and intensely cheesy center. The contrast is simply divine. What’s even better? They are incredibly easy to make, turning what could be a mundane reheat into an exciting culinary adventure. While you can certainly use any mac and cheese as your base, the secret to truly outstanding fried mac and cheese balls often lies in the quality of the original dish. For an unparalleled base, we recommend a rich and creamy recipe like the 5-cheese mac and cheese from Cooked by Julie, which promises a flavorful and robust foundation for these fried delights. You can find that specific recipe here: https://www.cookedbyjulie.com/5cheesemacandcheese/
Why Transform Your Leftovers into Golden Bites?
Reheating mac and cheese in the microwave or oven is fine, but it often results in a less-than-ideal texture. The pasta can become mushy, and the cheese might lose its creamy appeal. Frying, however, introduces a whole new dimension. The rapid cooking in hot oil creates a beautifully crisp crust, locking in all the cheesy goodness. Each bite offers that satisfying crunch followed by a warm, molten, cheesy core – a sensation far superior to simply reheating. It’s not just about avoiding waste; it’s about creating something genuinely new and exciting from familiar ingredients.
The Perfect Mac and Cheese Base for Frying
The foundation of great fried mac and cheese balls is, naturally, great mac and cheese. For optimal results, your mac and cheese should be relatively firm when cold, allowing it to hold its shape when rolled into balls. If your mac and cheese is too loose or saucy, it might be difficult to form. Chilling your mac and cheese thoroughly overnight in the refrigerator is crucial. This firming-up process ensures that your balls don’t fall apart during coating or frying. A cheese sauce that uses a good roux and a blend of melting cheeses (like cheddar, Gruyère, or even a touch of cream cheese) will yield the best texture and flavor for these crispy treats.
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
Save RecipeSaved Recipe
Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups left over Mac and cheese
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Remove the leftover Mac and cheese from the fridge and use a small cookie scoop to scoop out the Mac and cheese and then form them into golf sized balls.
-
In a medium sized bowl, whisk 2 eggs and set aside.
-
In a large bowl, whisk the bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
-
Coat the Mac and cheese balls in all purpose flour.
-
Dredge the coated Mac and cheese balls in the egg and then coat with the bread crumbs.
-
Deep fry in vegetable oil (350 degrees) for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!
Beyond the Recipe: Tips for Perfection
Prepping Your Mac and Cheese for Rolling
The success of your fried mac and cheese balls heavily relies on the initial preparation of the mac and cheese. As mentioned, it must be thoroughly chilled. Cold mac and cheese is firm and easy to handle, ensuring your balls maintain their shape. For best results, chill your leftovers for at least 4-6 hours, or ideally overnight. When scooping, a small cookie scoop (about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons) helps create uniform, golf ball-sized portions. Once scooped, use your hands to gently but firmly roll them into smooth, compact spheres. Place these formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If your mac and cheese is still a bit soft, a quick 30-minute freeze at this stage can firm them up further, making the coating process much easier and preventing them from disintegrating in the oil.
The Perfect Crispy Coating
Achieving that irresistible crispy exterior is all about the “breading station” technique. You’ll need three separate shallow bowls or dishes for this:
- **Flour Dredge:** All-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper provides a dry base for the egg to adhere to. This step is crucial for creating a proper seal.
- **Egg Wash:** Whisked eggs act as the “glue” that helps the breadcrumbs stick. Ensure the balls are fully coated.
- **Panko Power:** Panko breadcrumbs are the star here. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko is coarser and flakier, resulting in a much crispier, lighter crust. Press the panko firmly onto each ball to ensure full coverage. For an extra layer of crispiness and flavor, you can toast your panko lightly in a dry pan before using, or mix in some grated Parmesan cheese or dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning.
Ensure each mac and cheese ball is fully covered at each stage. A good tip is to use one hand for the wet ingredients (egg) and the other for the dry ingredients (flour and panko) to avoid clumping your hands.
Frying Safely and Effectively
Deep-frying can seem daunting, but with a few safety precautions and proper technique, it’s straightforward.
- **Oil Choice:** Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points and neutral flavor. Use enough oil to fully submerge the mac and cheese balls, typically 2-3 inches in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
- **Temperature Control:** An oil thermometer is your best friend. Maintaining the oil at 350°F (175°C) is key. If the oil is too cool, the balls will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the interior is heated through.
- **Batch Frying:** Do not overcrowd the pot. Fry the balls in small batches (3-4 at a time) to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding will drop the oil temperature and lead to soggy results.
- **Golden Brown Perfection:** Fry for just 1-2 minutes per batch, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. They cook quickly!
- **Draining:** Use a slotted spoon or spider to carefully remove the fried balls and place them on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
For a slightly healthier twist, you can also try air frying or baking these. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Baking can be done at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, again, flipping halfway. While these methods won’t replicate the deep-fried crispness exactly, they offer a delicious alternative.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
While classic fried mac and cheese balls are wonderful, don’t hesitate to get creative! Before rolling your mac and cheese into balls, consider mixing in some exciting additions:
- **Meaty Marvels:** Cooked and crumbled bacon, finely diced ham, or shredded buffalo chicken can add a savory punch.
- **Spicy Kicks:** Chopped jalapeños (fresh or pickled), a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce will introduce a delightful heat.
- **Herbaceous Notes:** Fresh chives, parsley, or a hint of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile.
- **Extra Cheesiness:** Incorporate small cubes of a different melting cheese like mozzarella, smoked gouda, or pepper jack into the center of each ball before rolling for an extra gooey surprise.
These variations make each batch a unique experience, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy, cheesy bites are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine with the right dipping sauce. Classic choices include:
- **Marinara Sauce:** A tangy tomato-based sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese.
- **Ranch Dressing:** The creamy, herby notes of ranch are a perfect complement.
- **Sriracha Mayo:** For those who enjoy a little heat, a blend of sriracha and mayonnaise offers a spicy-creamy balance.
- **Barbecue Sauce:** A smoky, sweet, or tangy barbecue sauce can add a unique twist.
- **Honey Mustard:** Sweet and savory, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them warm for the best experience, as the cheese inside will be perfectly melted and gooey.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These mac and cheese balls are excellent for meal prepping or preparing ahead of a party:
- **Uncooked:** Form the balls and coat them with flour, egg, and panko. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time.
- **Cooked:** If you have leftover fried mac and cheese balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.
A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a game night, a casual get-together, or just looking for a fun new snack, these Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re nostalgic yet novel, comforting yet exciting. They embody the best of comfort food in a convenient, bite-sized package. Easy to prepare and even easier to devour, they’re proof that leftovers can be just as, if not more, exciting than the original meal. So next time you find yourself with extra mac and cheese, don’t just reheat it – roll it, coat it, fry it, and delight everyone with these golden, cheesy spheres of joy!
Give this recipe a try and share your results! We love seeing your culinary creations and hearing how these crispy treats brought a smile to your face. Enjoy the ultimate mac and cheese transformation!