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These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

May 13, 2025

11 Ingredients
MEDIUM

These Fried Mac & Cheese Balls are the ultimate way to transform leftover mac and cheese into an irresistible snack or party appetizer. Each ball features a gooey mozzarella center wrapped in creamy, cold mac and cheese, then double breaded for extra crunch. After a brief chill in the freezer, they’re deep-fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and molten, cheesy middle. Serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce, and don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for a gourmet touch.

Fried Mac & Cheese Balls
Fried Mac & Cheese Balls
Fried Mac & Cheese Balls
Fried Mac & Cheese Balls cover
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4

Fried Mac & Cheese Balls

By
These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

Ingredients

balls
Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
|
Take a handful of cold mac and cheese and flatten slightly.
2
|
Place a small mozzarella ball in the center and wrap mac and cheese around it to form a ball.
3
|
Repeat for all 8 balls and freeze for 30 minutes.
4
|
Prepare three breading stations: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with scrambled eggs, and one with breadcrumbs also seasoned.
5
|
Coat each ball in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
6
|
Freeze breaded balls for 1 hour.
7
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Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry balls until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
8
|
Transfer to paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt, Parmesan, and fresh basil.
9
|
Serve with dipping sauce of choice and enjoy!
Bite Tutorial

Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Freeze for Structural Integrity 🧊
    After forming the mac and cheese balls, freeze them for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from falling apart during frying and ensure a crisp exterior.
  • Breadcrumb Double-Dip Technique 🥚
    For maximum crunch, use a three-step breading process: first flour, then egg wash, then seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture.
  • Oil Temperature Precision 🌡️
    Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350-375°F when deep-frying to achieve a golden-brown exterior without absorbing excess oil or burning the breading.
  • Mozzarella Placement Trick 🧀
    When forming the balls, create a small pocket in the center of the cold mac and cheese and insert a mozzarella ball to ensure a guaranteed molten cheese center.
  • Batch Frying Strategy 🍽️
    Fry mac and cheese balls in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower oil temperature and result in soggy, greasy appetizers.

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

These Carbs Don't Count

Verified

Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)

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