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–+ servings
Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls

Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls That Melt in Your Mouth

Crispy Mac and Cheese Balls are a delightful twist on comfort food, featuring a gooey center and crispy exterior.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with margarine for dairy-free options
  • 4 tablespoons Flour Gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative
  • 2 cups Milk Use almond milk or soy milk for a lactose-free version
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Can swap for mozzarella or pepper jack
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute
For the Balls
  • 3 cups Cooked Macaroni Any short pasta can be used
  • Vegetable Oil for frying Can substitute with canola or peanut oil
  • 2 large Eggs For a vegan option, substitute with a flaxseed meal mixture

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • Shallow bowls
  • Deep frying pan
  • slotted spoon
  • Thermometer

Method
 

Prepare Cheese Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until golden. Gradually add 2 cups of milk while whisking to ensure a smooth consistency and stir until it thickens.
  2. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Combine and Chill
  1. In a large bowl, add 3 cups of cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and chill for at least 2 hours.
Form the Balls
  1. Scoop out portions of the chilled mixture and roll into ping-pong-sized balls. Place them on a tray, leaving space between them.
  2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Lightly dust each ball with flour, dip in egg wash, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Fry the Balls
  1. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Fry a few balls at a time for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  2. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dip.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure the mac and cheese mixture is well chilled for at least 2 hours. Frying in batches is key to maintaining the oil temperature for perfect crispiness.

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