Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsChile ColoradoFried Mac And Cheese Recipe

Fried Mac And Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Chile Colorado
Time45m
Serves4

Make Fried Mac And Cheese Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Macaroni and Cheese Base

Breading

Method

Macaroni and Cheese Base

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    Make the Cheese Sauce

    In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add 1 cup of milk, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth.

  3. 3

    Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. Season with 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Breading

  1. 4

    Prepare Breading Stations

    Set up three bowls: one with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, the second with 2 beaten large eggs, and the third with 1 cup of breadcrumbs mixed with 1 teaspoon of paprika.

  2. 5

    Form Mac and Cheese Balls

    Once the macaroni and cheese mixture is cool enough to handle, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.

  3. 6

    Bread the Balls

    Dip each ball first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each ball is fully coated.

Frying

  1. 7

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan, heat 2 cups of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  2. 8

    Fry the Mac and Cheese Balls

    Carefully add the breaded mac and cheese balls in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally.

  3. 9

    Drain and Serve

    Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried balls and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

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