Fried Mac and Cheese Balls with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls with Creamy Tomato Sauce are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite. These golden-brown balls are not only perfect for parties or game nights but also make a delightful treat for cozy evenings at home. The creamy tomato sauce adds a tangy touch that beautifully complements the richness of the cheese, making this dish irresistible. Easy to prepare and fun to eat, these mac and cheese bites are sure to impress both kids and adults alike!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (12 mac and cheese balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
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 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Mix in cheese until melted.
- Stir cooked macaroni into the cheese mixture, let cool slightly, then shape into small balls.
- Dip each ball into beaten egg, coat with flour, then roll in panko bread crumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry balls until golden brown (2-3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- For the sauce: Simmer tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a saucepan for 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 mac and cheese balls (90g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg