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Fried Mac and Cheese Balls with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Fried Mac and Cheese Balls paired with a creamy tomato sauce. These delightful bites combine the classic flavors of mac and cheese with a crispy golden exterior, making them a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these cheesy morsels are sure to impress everyone at the table. The addition of a rich, creamy tomato sauce elevates this dish, providing a tangy contrast that enhances each bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, Fried Mac and Cheese Balls offer something for everyone — from kids to adults. Get ready to savor the irresistible taste!

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in cheese until melted.
  3. Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce; let cool slightly before shaping into small balls.
  4. Coat each ball in beaten egg then dredge in flour and panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry balls until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
  6. For the sauce, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a saucepan; simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  7. Serve fried mac and cheese balls warm with creamy tomato sauce.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors. For extra crunch, double coat your balls in flour and breadcrumbs. If you prefer baking over frying, place formed balls on a greased baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) until golden.

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