Mac and Cheese Bites

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These delicious, crispy mac and cheese bites are the ultimate comfort food! Perfect for snacking, parties, or even as a fun side dish. Made with creamy, cheesy macaroni coated in breadcrumbs and fried (or baked) to golden perfection, these bites are a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • Cooking oil for frying (or spray for baking)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni:
    Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cheese Sauce:
    In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes). Add cheddar cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
  3. Mix Mac and Cheese:
    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and refrigerate for 1 hour, or until firm.
  4. Shape the Bites:
    Once chilled, scoop the mac and cheese into small bite-sized balls or squares.
  5. Coat the Bites:
    Beat the eggs in a small bowl. In another bowl, add the breadcrumbs. Dip each mac and cheese bite into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  6. Fry or Bake:
  • To Fry: Heat oil in a large pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  • To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  1. Serve:
    Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce (like marinara or ranch).

Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy mac and cheese bites!

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