Alex Bala’s Fried Mac n Cheese Balls

Name: Alex Bala’s Fried Mac n Cheese Balls
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 1 dozen
Ingredients: 1 box macaroni and cheese dinner mix; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 4 large eggs, beaten; 8 ounces panko bread crumbs; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons each salt and pepper; Oil for frying; Buffalo wing sauce, for dipping

Total Time Prep: 35 min. + freezing Cook: 5 min./batch

Yield 1 dozen

Golden, crispy and filled with gooey, cheesy goodness, these crispy fried Parmesan mac n cheese balls are comfort food in bite-sized form. They’re perfect for parties, game day, or turning leftover mac and cheese into something totally irresistible. Each ball has a crunchy panko coating, a melty center, and just the right hint of garlic and Parmesan. Dip them in Buffalo sauce for the ultimate flavor combo! —Alex Bala, Longmont, Colorado

Ingredients

1 box macaroni and cheese dinner mix
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs, beaten
8 ounces panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons each salt and pepper
Oil for frying
Buffalo wing sauce, for dipping

Directions

Cook macaroni and cheese according to the package instructions. Chill completely.
Divide into 12 portions. Flatten one portion in your hand, fill with a pinch of mozzarella cheese. Form macaroni around cheese to seal cheese inside. Repeat with remaining macaroni and mozzarella.
Place flour into a shallow dish. Add eggs to a separate shallow dish. In a third shallow dish, combine panko, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Roll macaroni balls into flour to coat all sides; shake off excess. Dip in egg, then in crumb mixture, patting to help coating adhere. Repeat steps for an extra crunchy exterior. Freeze until firm, about 1 hour.
In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry balls, a few at a time, until golden brown, 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Let cool 5 minutes before sprinkling with additional grated Parmesan and serving with Buffalo sauce for dipping.

Recipe Creator