Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites Recipe
These Mac & Cheese Bites are a deliciously cheesy and crispy appetizer or snack. Creamy macaroni and cheese is shaped into bite-sized pieces, coated with a light breadcrumb and egg mixture, then baked or fried to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, these bites combine a creamy center with a crunchy exterior for an irresistible treat.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 20 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Mac & Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 cup cheese sauce (cheddar or your favorite cheese sauce)
Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare the Mac & Cheese Bites: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce until the mixture is creamy and well blended. Chill the mixture for about 30 minutes to help it firm up for shaping.
- Form the Bites: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mac and cheese mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Lightly Bread the Bites: Dip each bite into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat lightly but evenly, ensuring a crispy crust after cooking.
- Cook the Bites: Choose to either bake or fry the bites. For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. For frying, heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the bites in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Allow the bites to cool slightly and serve warm, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
Notes
- Chilling the mac and cheese mixture before shaping helps the bites hold their form better.
- Use freshly made cheese sauce for the creamiest texture.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Frying yields a crispier crust, while baking is a lighter, less oily alternative.
- Leftover bites can be frozen and reheated in the oven for a quick snack.
Keywords: mac and cheese bites, cheesy bites, appetizer, snack, crispy mac and cheese, party food
