Mac & Cheese Bites Recipe
Crispy fried mac & cheese bites served with marinara.
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Ingredients
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Mac & Cheese
Breading
Frying
Marinara Sauce
Method
Mac & Cheese Preparation
- 1
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2
- 3
Add Milk and Cheese
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- 4
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is fully coated. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Breading and Frying
- 5
- 6
Form Bites
Once the mac & cheese is firm, scoop out small portions and form them into bite-sized balls or patties.
- 7
Bread the Bites
Coat each mac & cheese bite in flour, dip in the egg wash, and then roll in the bread crumbs to coat completely.
- 8
Heat Oil
In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- 9
Fry the Bites
Carefully add the breaded mac & cheese bites to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Marinara Sauce Preparation
- 10
Cook the Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 11
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and salt. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.