Macaroni and Cheese Bites

Crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, these irresistible Macaroni and Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food snack! Perfectly blending creamy sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese with tender elbow macaroni, these bite-sized delights are coated in crunchy breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. The recipe features an easy homemade cheese sauce seasoned with a touch of garlic powder for added flavor, while quick chilling ensures the mixture stays firm for shaping. Ready in under an hour, these cheesy bites are perfect for parties, game day, or as a fun appetizer. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like marinara or ranch, for a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re craving a crispy mac and cheese twist or planning your next party menu, these Macaroni and Cheese Bites will not disappoint!

Nutriscore Rating: 49/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

Step 3

Gradually add the milk to the saucepan while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Step 4

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5

Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.

Step 6

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.

Step 7

Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a shallow dish or baking tray and let it cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or until firm).

Step 8

Once firm, scoop small portions of the macaroni and cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into bite-sized balls.

Step 9

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs, and one empty plate for the finished bites.

Step 10

Dip each macaroni and cheese ball into the beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 11

Repeat this process until all balls are breaded and set them aside on a plate.

Step 12

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 13

Carefully fry the macaroni and cheese bites in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.

Step 14

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 15

Serve the macaroni and cheese bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1290 grams (1290.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6264

Total Fat 587.20g	753%
Saturated Fat 133.20g	666%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.00g
Cholesterol 687mg	229%
Sodium 3532mg	154%
Total Carbohydrate 190.60g	69%
Dietary Fiber 8.10g	29%
Total Sugars 23.90g
Protein 106.70g	213%

Vitamin D 230IU	1149%
Calcium 2087mg	161%
Iron 12mg	68%
Potassium 874mg	19%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 81.6%

Protein: 6.6%

Carbs: 11.8%