Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Origin and Cultural Significance

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are a modern comfort food born from Southern roots and elevated through American diner and bar food culture. Originally created to repurpose leftover mac and cheese, they’ve gained fame at restaurants and food festivals nationwide. Their viral popularity on platforms like TikTok and Instagram comes from their indulgent cheese pulls and satisfying crunch. These bite-sized snacks represent the fusion of home-cooked nostalgia with fried food decadence.

Unique Ingredients and Flavors

This recipe starts with creamy, cheesy macaroni chilled and shaped into balls, then coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. A sharp cheddar or mixed cheese base enhances the bold, rich flavor. Once fried, they have a crispy, golden crust and a gooey, molten center. Optional ingredients like bacon bits or jalapeños can add smoky or spicy twists.

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Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are made by chilling cooked mac and cheese, forming it into balls, breading them, and deep-frying to golden perfection. Each bite delivers a crispy exterior and rich, cheesy center. Ideal for appetizers, party trays, or late-night snacks, they’re crowd-pleasers every time. Serve them hot with marinara, ranch, or spicy dipping sauces.

Cooking Method: Deep Frying, Frying, Other Cuisine: Fusion Courses: Appetizer, Baking, Dinner, Lunch, Quick & Easy, Snack, Top Rated, Viral Foods Recipe Keys: A American Comfort Food A Appetizer D Deep Fried

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe Cheese Pull

Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 5 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 35 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Cooking Temp: 350  F

Ingredients

Cook Mode Cooking Mode Disabled

Servings

• 
  3 cups cooked macaroni – chilled, preferably day-old
• 
  1 cups ½ shredded cheddar cheese – or cheese blend
• 
  ¼ cup cream cheese – for added creaminess
• 
  ½ tsp garlic powder
• 
  Salt and pepper – to taste
• 
  2 eggs – beaten, for dredging
• 
  1 cup all-purpose flour – for coating
• 
  1 cups ½ breadcrumbs – regular or panko
• 
  Oil for deep frying – vegetable or canola oil
• 
  Optional: ¼ cup bacon bits or diced jalapeños – for flavor variations

Instructions

Step 1: Mix and Chill

1. In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Form Balls

1. Scoop chilled mac and cheese and form into 1½-inch balls. Place on a tray and freeze for 15 minutes to hold shape.

Step 3: Bread the Balls

1. Roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently to secure the coating.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

1. Heat oil to 350°F. Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve Hot

1. Serve immediately with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli.

Note

Chilling is essential to keep the balls intact during frying—don’t skip it.

These reheat well in an air fryer for a second-day crunch.

Keywords: fried mac and cheese, cheesy snacks, party appetizers, deep-fried comfort food, viral cheese balls