Fried Mac Cheese Balls (Print Version)

Golden mac & cheese balls with crunchy exterior and smooth center. Great for sharing at parties or gatherings.

# Components:

→ Mac & Cheese Base

01 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
02 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
03 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
04 - 3/4 cup whole milk
05 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Breading & Frying

11 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
12 - 2 large eggs
13 - 2 tablespoons milk
14 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
15 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
16 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
17 - Vegetable oil for deep frying

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Cook macaroni in boiling water according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbling. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
03 - Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
04 - Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, tossing until evenly coated. Spread mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
05 - Scoop heaping tablespoons of the chilled mixture and form into balls about 1¼ inches in diameter. Arrange on a tray and freeze for 30 minutes to set.
06 - Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and 2 tablespoons milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika and Italian herbs.
07 - Coat each ball first in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Repeat for all remaining balls.
08 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy saucepan to 350°F. Fry balls in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning to ensure even browning. Drain on paper towels using a slotted spoon.
09 - Present hot, accompanied by preferred dipping sauces.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect make-ahead appetizer for groups
  • Crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike
  • Deliciously crispy exterior and gooey cheesy center
  • Easy to customize with fun mix-ins
02 -
  • High protein appetizer since cheese and eggs provide a satisfying boost
  • Can be frozen before frying for a stress free party prep
  • A great way to use up leftover mac and cheese
03 -
  • Always chill and freeze the balls before breading so they hold together perfectly
  • Shred your own cheese for maximum melt and flavor store bought pre-shredded is often dry
  • Test oil temperature with a thermometer for that golden crisp not greasy finish
  • Use a wire rack for draining after frying for extra crispiness
  • These make party hosts look like heroes without much fuss

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