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Fried Mac & Cheese Bites with Sweet Basil Marinara

Crispy Fried Mac & Cheese Bites with Sweet Basil Marinara

Delicious Fried Mac & Cheese Bites with Sweet Basil Marinara are a must-try appetizer that combines crispy, golden bites with a cheesy center.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac & Cheese Filling
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Can substitute with gluten-free macaroni
  • 2 cups chicken stock Substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian
  • 1 cup evaporated milk Regular milk or a non-dairy alternative can be used
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese Monterey Jack or Gouda can be used
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese Plant-based cheese can be used for dairy-free option
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Use smoked paprika for more depth
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
For the Breading
  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water To thin the egg mixture
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs are an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used
For the Sweet Basil Marinara Sauce
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes Crushed tomatoes can be an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar Balances acidity
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Any light cooking oil can substitute
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Fresh basil enhances flavor
For Frying
  • vegetable oil Vegetable oil High smoke point oil like canola or sunflower

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Frying Pan
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pot, combine elbow macaroni, chicken stock, and evaporated milk. Bring to a boil and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  2. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the macaroni. Stir continuously until melted and creamy.
  3. Spread the mac and cheese onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  4. Blend diced tomatoes for a chunky sauce. In a saucepan, mix with brown sugar, olive oil, dried basil, and salt. Simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  5. Create a breading station with flour and cornstarch, beaten eggs with water, and panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder.
  6. Cut chilled mac and cheese into 24 squares. Dip each in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing to adhere.
  7. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan to 350°F. Fry the bites in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Serve the Fried Mac & Cheese Bites with sweet basil marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Serving: 2bitesCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 14gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 290mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for a crispy texture.

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