Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these irresistible Fried Mac and Cheese Balls - a crispy, cheesy masterpiece that's guaranteed to be the star of any gathering! Inspired by the legendary Cheesecake Factory recipe, these golden-brown bites are the perfect combination of creamy mac and cheese encased in a crunchy, golden exterior that will have everyone begging for more. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for an epic appetizer, or simply want to indulge in the most decadent comfort food ever, these mac and cheese balls are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 balls
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended and ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mac and cheese mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up, which will make forming balls easier.
- Using clean hands, scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of the chilled mac and cheese mixture. Roll into compact, uniform balls about
- 5 inches in diameter.
- Prepare three separate shallow dishes: one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs, and one for the finished balls.
- Roll each mac and cheese ball first in beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then immediately roll in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere.
- Place breaded balls on a clean plate or baking sheet. Refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes to help set the coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature.
- Carefully lower breaded mac and cheese balls into hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove balls using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips
- Chill is Key: Make sure to refrigerate the mac and cheese mixture before forming balls. This helps the mixture hold together and makes shaping much easier.
- Temperature Matters: Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the oil is exactly 350°F. Too cool, and the balls will be greasy; too hot, and they'll burn on the outside before cooking through.
- Breadcrumb Technique: Press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly onto the balls to create a solid, crispy coating that won't fall off during frying.
- Batch Frying: Don't overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Drain Properly: Let the fried balls rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil and maintain that perfect crispy texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture. These balls are at their prime when hot and crispy!
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the balls and keep them refrigerated before the final frying step, making party prep a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 70mg
