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Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites transform classic comfort food into irresistible party snacks. These golden bites pack all the creamy goodness of homemade macaroni and cheese into a crispy breaded shell. The addition of smoky bacon and two types of cheese takes them from delicious to absolutely incredible.
The Perfect Party Bite
Every bite delivers the perfect contrast of textures from the crunchy panko coating to the creamy cheesy center. The bacon adds an extra layer of savory flavor that makes these impossible to resist. Since you can prep them ahead they're perfect for parties or anytime you need something special.
Your Complete Ingredient List
- 8 slices bacon: Cooked until crispy and finely chopped. Save 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat for extra flavor.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni: Cook exactly 7 minutes for the right texture must be slightly underdone.
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease: Substitute with unsalted butter if preferred.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Plus extra 2 cups for coating.
- 3 cups whole milk: Warmed slightly for smoother sauce.
- 1 teaspoon each garlic and onion powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon each cayenne and nutmeg: Adjust cayenne to taste.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar: Freshly grated from block.
- 2 cups Monterey Jack: Freshly grated provides best melt.
- 4 large eggs: Beaten well for breading.
- 3 cups panko breadcrumbs: For ultimate crispiness.
- 2 quarts vegetable oil: For frying maintain at 350°F.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create Your Cheese Sauce
- Heat bacon grease in large pot over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour cooking for 2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in warmed milk stirring constantly until thickened about 5 minutes. Season with spices. Remove from heat stir in both cheeses until completely melted.
- Mix and Chill
- Fold cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon into cheese sauce until well combined. Spread mixture into 9x13 pan lined with plastic wrap leaving overhang. Press plastic directly onto surface. Refrigerate minimum 2 hours or overnight until completely firm.
- Prepare for Breading
- Set up breading station: one bowl with 2 cups flour one with beaten eggs one with seasoned panko. Cut chilled mac and cheese into 1-inch squares. Keep cold while working.
- Bread Each Piece
- Dip each square first in flour shaking off excess then egg allowing excess to drip off then coat thoroughly in panko pressing gently to adhere. Place on parchment-lined sheet.
- Final Frying
- Heat oil to exactly 350°F using candy thermometer. Fry breaded bites in batches of 6-8 for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels season immediately with flaky salt.
Keys to Success
- Always grate cheese fresh pre-shredded won't melt properly into sauce.
- Freeze breaded bites 15 minutes before frying helps maintain shape.
- Keep oil at constant 350°F use thermometer to monitor.
- Work in small batches when frying prevents oil temperature from dropping.
Common Questions
- Make ahead: Freeze breaded unbaked bites up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen add 1-2 minutes cooking time.
- Best oil choices: Vegetable canola or peanut oil all work well maintain high smoke point.
- Baking option: Arrange on lined baking sheet spray with cooking oil bake 400°F for 15-20 minutes turning halfway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why chill the mac and cheese first?
Chilling for at least 3 hours allows the mac and cheese to firm up completely, making it easier to cut and bread without falling apart.
- → Why freeze before frying?
Freezing helps the bites hold their shape during frying and ensures the coating sticks well. The cold center also prevents overcooking.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Yes, prepare through breading and freeze up to a month. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.
- → Why use bacon grease in the sauce?
Bacon grease adds extra smoky flavor to the sauce. Butter works as a substitute but won't have the same smoky taste.
- → Why dredge in flour before egg?
The flour helps the egg stick better to the mac and cheese, which in turn helps the breadcrumbs adhere properly for a crispy coating.