Fried Mac & Cheese Balls

By hcardall

Fried mac and cheese balls are the perfect ooey, gooey comfort food filled with creamy cheese and pasta, then deep-fried for a perfectly poppable cheesy treat that is sure to be a hit at any celebratory party, gameday fiesta, or dinner party. Start your meal off the right way with these lusciously crispy, bite-sized treats! Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any sauce you enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 quarts water
• 1 teaspoons salt, divided
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons milk, divided
• 1 (12-ounce) package process cheese spread, cubed
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• peanut oil for frying
• Franks Hot Sauce to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking dish.

In a large saucepan, bring water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil over high heat. Add pasta, and cook 6 to 8 minutes or until tender; drain well.

In a large bowl, combine hot cooked pasta, 1/2 cup milk, cheese spread, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper; stir until cheeses are melted. Stir in hot sauce to taste.

Spoon onto a prepared baking sheet and freeze for 2 hours.

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and cornmeal. Dip balls into egg mixture, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture.

In a large Dutch oven or cast iron pot, pour oil to a depth of 2 inches; heat to 350°F over medium heat. Fry macaroni and cheese balls in batches, 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or other dipping sauce of your choice.