If you love crispy, golden-brown bites packed with cheesy goodness, these Macaroni Cheese Balls are about to become your new favorite snack! Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or just to satisfy a comfort food craving, this recipe delivers a crunchy outside with a gooey, cheesy center.
And guess what? If you’re a fan of Bang Bang Chicken, you can even serve these with the famous Bang Bang Sauce for a spicy, creamy kick! 🔥
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Macaroni Cheese Balls
Crispy & Golden – Enjoy the perfect crunch in every bite!
Cheesy & Gooey – Melty cheese lovers, this one’s for you.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, incredible results.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep them in advance and fry when ready!
Let’s dive into the ultimate Macaroni Cheese Balls recipe that will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
For the Mac & Cheese Base:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Dipping:
- Bang Bang Sauce (Mayo + Sweet Chili Sauce + Sriracha) – A perfect pairing!
How to Make Macaroni Cheese Balls
Step 1: Cook the Mac & Cheese
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a smooth mixture.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and keep stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni and let the mac & cheese cool completely.
💡 Pro Tip: Spreading the mac & cheese on a baking sheet speeds up the cooling process!
Step 2: Shape the Balls
- Once cooled, take small portions and roll them into balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Place them on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
- In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and paprika. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each mac & cheese ball in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Fry Until Crispy
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the balls in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce! Try it with Bang Bang Sauce for a spicy, creamy twist. 🔥
Baking & Air Fryer Options
🔥 To Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the mac & cheese balls on a baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
🔥 To Air Fry:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air fry the balls for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Tips for the Best Macaroni Cheese Balls
Chill Before Frying – Freezing helps them hold their shape while frying.
Use Sharp Cheddar – It gives the best cheesy flavor!
Double-Coat for Extra Crunch – Repeat the breading step for an ultra-crispy exterior.
Pair with Bang Bang Sauce – The spicy, creamy dip takes these to the next level!
Serving Suggestions
These Macaroni Cheese Balls are perfect for:
- Game Day Snacks
- Party Appetizers
- Movie Night Treats
- A Fun Side Dish
Serve them with ketchup, ranch, or Bang Bang Sauce for a crowd-pleasing combo!
Final Thoughts
Crispy, cheesy, and absolutely addictive—these Macaroni Cheese Balls are the ultimate snack for any occasion. Whether you deep-fry, bake, or air-fry them, you’re guaranteed a golden, crunchy exterior with a melty, cheesy center.
🔥 Want a bold twist? Pair them with Bang Bang Sauce for an unforgettable bite!
Try this recipe today, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking! 🍽️😊
PrintCrispy & Cheesy Macaroni Cheese Balls – The Ultimate Party Snack!
These Macaroni Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside and loaded with gooey, cheesy goodness inside. Perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or side dish, they are made from creamy mac and cheese, rolled into bite-sized balls, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection. Whether you serve them with marinara, ranch, or a spicy Bang Bang Sauce, they’ll disappear fast!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Mac & Cheese Base:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Coating:
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
For Dipping:
Bang Bang Sauce (Mayo + Sweet Chili Sauce + Sriracha) – A perfect pairing!
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Mac & Cheese
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until a smooth paste forms.
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Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
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Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
-
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
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Transfer the mac & cheese to a baking sheet, spread evenly, and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
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Once chilled, scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mac & cheese and roll into small balls. Place them on a lined tray.
-
Freeze the balls for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
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In a bowl, beat the eggs.
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In another bowl, mix the flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
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Roll each mac & cheese ball in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
Step 4: Fry Until Crispy
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Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the balls in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or Bang Bang Sauce for a spicy twist!
Notes
Chilling is key! Make sure the mac & cheese is cold before rolling into balls, and freeze them before frying for best results.
Want a healthier version? Try baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or air-frying at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix for extra cheesiness!
Make-Ahead Tip: You can freeze the coated balls for up to 2 months—just fry them straight from frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20 macaroni cheese balls
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Macaroni Cheese Balls
