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Fried Mac & Cheese Bites: 1 Foolproof Recipe

Fried Mac & Cheese Bites with Hot Honey

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Crispy fried mac and cheese bites drizzled with hot honey. A sweet and spicy appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup hot honey

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Fold in the cooked macaroni.
  7. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
  8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  9. Once firm, cut the mac and cheese into 1-inch squares.
  10. Set up a dredging station: one shallow dish with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  11. Dredge each mac and cheese square in flour, then egg, then panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  12. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  13. Fry the mac and cheese bites in batches, without overcrowding the pot, for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  14. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  15. Arrange fried mac and cheese bites on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with hot honey.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure the mac and cheese is completely chilled and firm before cutting and frying.
  • You can make the mac and cheese mixture a day in advance.
  • Adjust the amount of hot honey to your spice preference.

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