Game Day Fried Mac Cheese (Printable version)
Golden fried bites with creamy cheddar and mozzarella, ideal as a crunchy and comforting snack.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta & Cheese Base
01 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
04 - 1 cup whole milk
05 - 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 - 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
07 - 1 oz cream cheese
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
→ Breading Station
11 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
12 - 3 large eggs
13 - 2 tbsp milk
14 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
15 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
16 - 1/2 tsp paprika
17 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
→ Frying
18 - Vegetable oil for frying
# How to Prepare:
01 - Boil macaroni in salted water according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
03 - Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
04 - Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Spread mixture in a parchment-lined baking dish. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm enough to handle.
05 - Cut chilled mac and cheese into 24 equal squares, or use a small ice cream scoop to form balls.
06 - Arrange three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with whisked eggs and milk, third with panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
07 - Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with panko. Press gently to ensure breading adheres properly.
08 - Heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 350°F. Fry bites in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until deeply golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
09 - Transfer fried bites to a serving platter. Accompany with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for dipping.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- These disappear faster than any other appetizer Ive ever made, leaving guests actually hunting down the recipe
- The make ahead prep means youre not stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is watching the game
02 -
- Never skip the chilling step because I once tried and ended up with a disastrous mess of cheese and crumbs floating in my oil
- Your oil must stay at 350°F, and investing in an inexpensive kitchen thermometer prevents both undercooked centers and burnt exteriors
03 -
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce before chilling for extra flavor layers
- For baking instead of frying, arrange breaded bites on a parchment lined sheet at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through