Dessert

Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

Name: Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup regular breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; Cooked bacon bits (optional); Jalapeños for heat (optional); Italian seasoning in breadcrumb coating (optional); Mozzarella cubes for stuffing (optional)

ByVictor Layne December 19, 2025December 19, 2025

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Introduction

Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. With a crunchy golden exterior and creamy, cheesy macaroni inside, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or simply satisfying your snack cravings. Kids and adults alike will love these irresistible cheesy bites.

A close-up of golden brown fried mac and cheese balls stacked on a white plate with a crispy, crunchy textured outer layer sprinkled with small green herb flakes. One ball is broken open on top, showing gooey, creamy, yellow macaroni and cheese with soft elbow noodles inside. Next to the stack, there is a small clear glass bowl filled with bright red dipping sauce. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked macaroni and cheese, chilled
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup regular breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Chill the macaroni and cheese until completely cold and firm, ideally overnight. This helps the balls hold their shape.
Step 2: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the chilled mac and cheese into 1.5-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: flour in the first, whisked eggs and milk in the second, and a mixture of panko, regular breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
Step 4: Roll each ball in flour, shake off excess, dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
Step 5: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F. Fry 4 to 5 balls at a time for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown.
Step 6: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For best results, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy balls. Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F and fry in small batches.
Freezing the formed balls for 30 minutes before breading makes them easier to handle.
Add cooked bacon bits or jalapeños to the mac and cheese for extra flavor, or place a small cube of mozzarella inside each ball for an ooey-gooey center.
For a lighter option, bake the balls at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Swap panko with regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for varied texture.

Storage

Store leftover fried mac and cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. You can freeze uncooked breaded balls for up to 2 months and fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white plate with six round, golden-brown fried balls that have a crunchy, textured outer layer with small green herb bits sprinkled on top. One ball is broken open at the center top, showing a creamy, bright yellow macaroni and cheese filling with elbow pasta and melted cheese strands. In the background, there is a small clear glass cup filled with reddish ketchup, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Homemade mac and cheese works great as long as it’s thick and chilled thoroughly. Avoid overly saucy mac and cheese to ensure the balls hold together well.

Why are my balls falling apart?

This usually happens if the mac and cheese isn’t cold or firm enough. Make sure to chill it completely before shaping. Adding a beaten egg to the mac can help bind the mixture if needed.