Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

Ingredients

• 8 cups prepared macaroni and cheese
• 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 2 jalapenos, (stem and seeds removed, diced)
• 2 green onions, (chopped)
• 2 large eggs, (whisked)
• 12 ounce bacon, (cooked until crispy, crumbled)
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs, (crushed)
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil, (for frying)

Instructions

1. 1

   Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place a baking rack on top. Set aside.

2. 2

   --- Macaroni and Cheese Bites ---

3. 3

   Make the mac and cheese according to package directions. Let cool.

4. 4

   Cook and crumble bacon, set aside.

5. 5

   In a large bowl, add mac and cheese, whisked eggs, green onions, jalapenos, cheese and crumbled bacon. Stir to combine.

6. 6

   Scoop macaroni mixture into 1-inch balls. Make sure they are tightly rolled up so they don’t fall apart.

7. 7

   Flash freeze for 30 minutes.

8. 8

   --- Crispy Coating ---

9. 9

   While the mac and cheese bites are in the freezer, set up a dredging station with 3 shallow containers.

10. 10

    In the first container, add flour.

11. 11

    The second container, add buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. Whisk together.

12. 12

    In the third container add breadcrumbs and all the seasonings for the coating.

13. 13

    Heat oil over medium high heat.

14. 14

    Add each ball into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and then into the breadcrumb mixture.

15. 15

    Place about 6-8 balls into the hot oil and deep fry until golden on all sides.

16. 16

    Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a prepared baking sheet with a wire rack.

17. 17

    Make sure to work in batches so the oil keeps the perfect temperature.

18. 18

    Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.