Fried Macaroni and Cheese Bites

If you’re like me and love appetizers, you’ll adore these Fried Macaroni and Cheese Bites. This favorite recipe is perfect for creating a full meal from appetizers, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious twist on a classic treat.

Nothing elevates happy hour like warm, crispy mac and cheese bites. These mouthwatering, poppable treats are a fun and delicious way to enhance your appetizer spread, ensuring everyone enjoys a delightful experience.

Crispy, Crunchy, Gooey

Macaroni and Cheese Bites offer the perfect blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures, making them a hit as a fun appetizer for friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a casual meal, these two-bite treats are perfect for everyone, including those who aren’t gluten-free or dairy-free.

Although they might not fit the Meatless Monday bill perfectly, these mac and cheese bites are so irresistible that even my husband couldn’t resist devouring them as soon as they were served.

As the ultimate comfort food, macaroni and cheese becomes even more delightful when transformed into bite-sized, crispy treats. The savory cheese sauce paired with a delicate, crunchy crust makes each bite a pleasure.

One of the best parts of this recipe is that the mac and cheese can be prepared in advance. Simply make and chill it a day or two ahead to ensure the perfect texture when cutting out your bites.

For added flavor, serve these mac and cheese bites on a bed of marinara sauce. You can either use your favorite homemade recipe or opt for a convenient store-bought version.

Ingredients needed to make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

• elbow pasta
• shredded cheddar cheese
• milk
• butter
• cream cheese
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• kosher salt
• black pepper
• Coating:
• crackers
• egg
• milk

How to make Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Instructions

Prepare the Mac & Cheese:

Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Make Cheese Sauce: In a large stock pot, melt the butter over medium/low heat. Add the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cream cheese. Stir and heat until the milk is warmed and the cream cheese has melted.

Add Cheddar: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and reduce the heat to low. Mix well until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Combine Pasta: Add the cooked elbow pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly. Remove from heat and allow to cool partially.

Chill: Line a 9”x9”x3” deep baking dish with saran wrap. Pour the mac & cheese into the dish, cover with saran wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Prepare the Coating:

Mix Egg & Milk: In a bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.

Crush Crackers: Place the crushed crackers in a separate bowl.

Form and Coat Bites:

Cut Mac & Cheese: Remove the chilled mac & cheese from the fridge and cut into 2” squares.

Coat Bites: Dip each cube into the egg mixture, then roll in the crushed crackers, ensuring an even coating.

Air Fryer: Line the air fryer tray with parchment paper. Arrange the mac & cheese bites on the tray, leaving a 1” gap between each.

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove and enjoy with marinara sauce!

Pan Frying Option:

Heat Oil: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Pan Fry Bites: Add the coated mac & cheese bites in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Drain: Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve with Marinara and enjoy.

Are you looking for more great appetizer ideas? Make sure you check out my recipe for Gluten and Dairy Free Tomato Peach Bruschetta. Now let’s get cooking!