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Comfort food has a unique way of wrapping us in warmth and nostalgia, and few dishes evoke this feeling quite like mac and cheese. This beloved classic, with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, has graced dinner tables and family gatherings for generations. However, in the realm of culinary creativity, the humble mac and cheese has undergone a delightful transformation. Enter the Crispy Baked Mac & Cheese Balls—a modern twist on the traditional dish that brings a whole new level of excitement to your palate.

Crunchy Baked Mac & Cheese Balls

Discover the ultimate comfort food with a twist—Crispy Baked Mac & Cheese Balls! These delicious bites offer a crunchy exterior and gooey, cheesy center, making them perfect for game day, parties, or cozy family dinners. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress, these mac and cheese balls are made from quality ingredients like elbow macaroni, a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, and seasonings that elevate the flavor. Dive into this delightful recipe and enjoy a fun take on a classic favorite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups whole milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deeper flavor)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Instructions
 

Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until lightly golden. Gradually pour in the milk while continually whisking to avoid lumps. Stir the mixture until it thickens and begins to bubble, approximately 5-7 minutes.

      Incorporate Seasonings and Cheese: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, smoked paprika, along with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until all the cheeses are fully melted, resulting in a rich and smooth cheese sauce.

        Combine with Pasta: Pour the velvety cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir well to ensure all the pasta is coated. Allow this cheesy mixture to cool for about 30 minutes; this helps it hold together when forming balls.

          Shape into Balls: Once the mixture has cooled, use your hands to scoop and roll portions into small balls, approximately the size of golf balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

            Establish a Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one for 1/2 cup of flour, one for the beaten eggs, and the final one for the panko breadcrumbs.

              Bread the Mac & Cheese Balls: Take each ball and first roll it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs for a good coating, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until well-coated. Return the breaded balls to the parchment-lined baking sheet.

                Bake the Mac & Cheese Balls: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly mist the balls with cooking spray or drizzle a touch of olive oil over them to encourage a nice crisp. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Let the mac & cheese balls cool for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara or ranch dressing, for an added flavor boost.

                    Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 16-20 balls

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the mac & cheese balls on a decorative platter, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. Serve alongside small bowls of dipping sauce for a fun and inviting presentation!