What Are Fried Mac & Cheese Balls?
Imagine this: it’s the day after your mac and cheese night. You open the fridge, spot that cold container of cheesy goodness, and wonder, “What now?” Well, let me introduce you to the most crave-worthy solution—Fried Mac & Cheese Balls. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and with a molten mozzarella center? Yes, please!
These little golden bites are the perfect snack, appetizer, or even indulgent side dish. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a midnight snack, or just looking to reinvent those cheesy leftovers, this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen rockstar. Best of all, they’re easy to make and wildly customizable.
Why You’ll LOVE This Recipe
- Super Crunchy Outside, Melty Inside
- The Ultimate Way to Use Up Leftover Mac
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
- Crowd-Pleaser at Any Gathering
- Customizable – Stuff with Anything You Like
Ingredients
For the Balls:
- 3 cups leftover mac and cheese, cold
- 8 small mozzarella balls (or cut mozzarella into 1-inch cubes)
For the Breading Station:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups plain breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch!)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for shallow or deep frying)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Favorite dipping sauce (marinara, ranch, etc.)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Plates for breading station
- Deep pan or pot for frying
- Paper towels
- Slotted spoon or tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Form the Balls
Take a generous scoop of cold mac and cheese and flatten it slightly in your hand. Then, place a mozzarella ball in the center and wrap the mac and cheese around it, forming a tight ball.
2. Freeze the Balls
Place all balls on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape.
3. Set Up Breading Station
On one plate, place flour. In a bowl, beat the eggs. On another plate, spread the breadcrumbs. Season each with salt and pepper.
4. Double Bread for Extra Crunch
Roll each ball in flour, then dip in egg, then breadcrumbs. Next, dip again in the egg and then in breadcrumbs for a double coating.
5. Freeze Again
Freeze the breaded balls for 1 hour before frying to prevent them from falling apart in the oil.
6. Heat Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil over medium heat (350°F if using a thermometer).
7. Fry to Golden Perfection
Add 3–4 balls at a time and fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain & Season
Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt while hot.
9. Garnish & Enjoy
Finally, serve with fresh basil, a dusting of Parmesan, and your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t skip freezing – it helps the balls hold their shape during frying.
- Use cold mac and cheese only. Warm or freshly made won’t firm up properly.
- Panko breadcrumbs make these extra crunchy, but any breadcrumb will work.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.
- If using block mozzarella, freeze the cubes beforehand for an extra gooey center.
Variations & Substitutions
Make It Spicy
Add diced jalapeños to your mac and cheese before forming the balls, or mix chili flakes into the breadcrumb coating.
Add Protein
Chopped bacon or shredded chicken mixed into the mac makes these even heartier.
Make It Vegan
Use vegan mac and cheese, plant-based mozzarella, and dairy-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, swap eggs for a flaxseed or cornstarch slurry.
Veggie Add-Ins
Add finely chopped spinach, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms to the mac before forming the balls for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and grated cheese.
- Pair with a crisp salad to balance the richness.
How to Store & Reheat
Store any leftover fried mac and cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until hot and crispy—avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. You can also use an air fryer.
What’s the best mac and cheese to use?
Any kind works, but thicker, cheesier versions hold together best. If it’s too runny, add some shredded cheese or breadcrumbs to firm it up.
How do I store leftover creamy pasta before making these?
Store your mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it chill fully so it’s easy to shape. It’s best used within 2–3 days for freshness.
Can I freeze these before frying?
Yes! In fact, freezing before frying is essential. You can also freeze them fully breaded and fry straight from frozen—just increase the frying time slightly.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover mac and cheese, this is it. These Fried Mac & Cheese Balls are a crispy, melty dream—easy to make, fun to eat, and impossible to stop at just one. So, give them a try and let me know how they turn out! Got your own twist on this recipe? Drop it in the comments or tag me on social—I love seeing your creations!