These crispy mac and cheese balls turn everyone’s favorite comfort food into the ultimate party snack. Creamy, cheesy centers wrapped in a golden, crunchy coating, perfect for game day, holidays, or any time you need a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time20 minutesmins
Cook Time15 minutesmins
Chill Time1 hourhr
Total Time1 hourhr35 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Mac and Cheese Balls
Servings: 18Balls
Ingredients
For the mac and cheese:
2cupsprepared mac and cheesehomemade or boxed, cooled
½cupshredded cheddar cheese
¼teaspoongarlic powder
Salt and pepperto taste
For the breading:
1cupall-purpose flour
2large eggsbeaten
1½cupsbreadcrumbs
Oil for frying
Instructions
In a medium bowl, mix together the mac and cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Scoop out about two tablespoons of the mixture at a time and roll it into balls, placing each one on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the balls in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or pop them into the freezer for 20–30 minutes if you’re short on time.
Set up three bowls for breading: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Roll each chilled ball first in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs until evenly covered.
Heat about two to three inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry a few balls at a time until they’re golden brown and crispy, about two to three minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any extra oil.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo.