Mac and Cheese Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the mac and cheese
01 -
8 oz elbow macaroni
02 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
04 -
2 cups whole milk
05 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
06 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 -
Salt and pepper to taste
08 -
½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika
→ For the coating
10 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
11 -
2 large eggs, beaten
12 -
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
13 -
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 -
Cooking spray or vegetable oil (for frying)
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
02 -
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden color. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Remove from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni.
03 -
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish or a large bowl. Spread it evenly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This chilling step is essential to help the mixture hold its shape when forming the bites.
04 -
Once the mac and cheese is firm, use a spoon or a small ice cream scoop to form small balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
05 -
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat for all bites.
06 -
For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil and arrange the bites in a single layer with space between them. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place coated bites on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway. For frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
07 -
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
# Notes:
01 -
The bites can be made ahead and frozen before cooking for quick preparation later.