Fried Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

Macaroni and cheese: Use your favorite mac and cheese recipe or leftovers.

Breadcrumbs: These will give the balls a crispy outer layer.

Eggs: Beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the mac and cheese balls.

Flour: Coating the balls in flour helps the egg adhere better.

Salt: Add to taste to enhance the flavor.

Pepper: Add to taste for a bit of spice.

Oil: Necessary for frying the balls to a golden brown.

When forming the mac and cheese balls, make sure they are tightly packed to prevent them from falling apart during frying. Chilling the balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before coating them in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs can help them hold their shape better.

• cooked macaroni and cheese - Substitute with cooked pasta with cheese sauce: If you don't have macaroni and cheese, you can use any cooked pasta mixed with a cheese sauce. This will provide a similar creamy and cheesy texture.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar crunchy coating. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can be used to help the coating adhere to the mac and cheese balls. It adds a slight tangy flavor and works well as a binding agent.

• flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a coating to help the breadcrumbs stick. It creates a light and crispy texture when fried.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty flavor with an umami boost. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

• oil - Substitute with vegetable shortening: Vegetable shortening can be used for frying and will provide a similar result. It has a high smoke point and creates a crispy exterior.

• Allow the fried mac and cheese balls to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation and sogginess when stored.
• Place the cooled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. This step is crucial to prevent them from sticking together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the balls freeze until solid, approximately 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, remove the balls from the baking sheet and place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Label the container with the date for easy reference.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake the balls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• For short-term storage, place the cooled balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To reheat refrigerated balls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but they may lose some crispiness.
• Serve the reheated fried mac and cheese balls immediately for the best texture and flavor.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the fried mac and cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Lightly spray the balls with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the fried mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the fried mac and cheese balls to the pan.
  3. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the fried mac and cheese balls on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the fried mac and cheese balls on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.

• Mixing bowl: For holding and mixing the beaten eggs.

• Whisk: To beat the eggs until they are well combined.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the macaroni and cheese, flour, and breadcrumbs accurately.

• Baking sheet: To place the coated mac and cheese balls before frying.

• Frying pan: To heat the oil and fry the mac and cheese balls.

• Slotted spoon: To remove the fried mac and cheese balls from the oil.

• Paper towels: To drain the excess oil from the fried mac and cheese balls.

• Tongs: To handle the mac and cheese balls while frying.

• Plate: To serve the fried mac and cheese balls.

• Cooling rack: Optional, to place the fried mac and cheese balls for further draining.

Prepare in advance: Make the mac and cheese a day ahead and refrigerate. This will help it firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.

Use a cookie scoop: For uniform mac and cheese balls, use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture quickly.

Set up a breading station: Arrange the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in a line to streamline the coating process.

Heat oil properly: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to reduce cooking time and achieve a perfect golden brown.