Fried Mac and Cheese

This Fried Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for holiday entertaining, creamy on the inside, golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Thank you Bread and Butter for sponsoring this recipe!

The holiday season is all about good comfort food and enjoying good times with loved ones. What better way to treat your guests than with a dish that brings together everyone’s favorite comfort food—mac and cheese—with a sophisticated twist? Enter my Fried Mac and Cheese recipe, paired perfectly with Bread & Butter Wines Chardonnay, a match made in holiday heaven.

The Secret to Easy, Yet Impressive, Entertaining

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using leftover mac and cheese (or store bought, shhhh I won’t tell anybody lol) , you’re already ahead in the game. No need to overcomplicate things; just repurpose that delicious dish sitting in your fridge into something truly spectacular. The crispy exterior of the fried mac and cheese, coupled with the creamy, cheesy center, creates a mouthwatering contrast that’s hard to resist. Serve these golden bites with a side of rich vodka sauce, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, and you’ve got a winner on your hands.

But what really takes this dish to the next level is the pairing with Bread & Butter Chardonnay. The wine’s rich and creamy texture, with notes of ripe apple, pear, and buttered toast, complements the mac and cheese perfectly. The Chardonnay’s subtle oakiness enhances the flavors of the dish without overpowering it, making it an ideal choice for your holiday spread.

Why Bread & Butter Chardonnay?

Bread & Butter Chardonnay is more than just a wine; it’s an experience. The name itself evokes the idea of simplicity and comfort, much like this Fried Mac and Cheese recipe. The wine’s balance of rich flavors and bright acidity makes it versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes, but it really shines alongside cheesy, creamy creations like this one.

What makes Bread & Butter Chardonnay the go-to for holiday entertaining is its crowd-pleasing nature. Whether your guests are wine connoisseurs or casual sippers, this Chardonnay appeals to a wide range of palates. Its approachable profile, with a smooth finish, ensures that it will be a hit at any gathering.

Explore the Bread & Butter Wines Portfolio

While the Chardonnay is a standout, Bread & Butter Wines has a diverse portfolio that can cater to every taste and occasion. Their Pinot Noir offers bright fruit flavors with a hint of earthiness, making it a great companion for roasted meats. The Cabernet Sauvignon, with its bold, full-bodied character, pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like beef tenderloin or lamb. And for those who prefer something on the lighter side, the Sauvignon Blanc offers crisp, refreshing notes that pair well with seafood and salads.

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Fried Macaroni and Cheese

This Fried Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for holiday entertaining, creamy on the inside, golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Servings 6 Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Author natasha

Ingredients

• 12 oz leftover mac and cheese chilled
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Vodka sauce for serving
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

• Take the chilled leftover mac and cheese and scoop it into approximately 1-inch balls. Roll each ball between your hands to ensure they are tightly packed and round. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
• In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, spread out the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
• Take each mac and cheese ball and roll it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll the ball in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the surface. Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet.
• In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place a few mac and cheese balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mac and cheese balls from the oil, and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining balls.
• Warm the vodka sauce in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
• Serve the fried mac and cheese balls with a side of vodka sauce for dipping. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Tips for Holiday Entertaining

1. Prep Ahead: Simplify your holiday cooking by prepping dishes like my Fried Mac and Cheese in advance. You can shape the mac and cheese balls and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry.
2. Keep It Simple: Don’t feel the need to go overboard with complicated dishes. Focus on a few standout recipes and pair them with the right wines, like Bread & Butter Chardonnay, to create a memorable meal.
3. Create a Wine Station: Set up a designated area where guests can explore different wines from the Bread & Butter portfolio. This encourages mingling and makes the wine selection part of the entertainment.
4. Serve Family Style: Encourage a relaxed, communal atmosphere by serving dishes family-style. It’s a great way to make everyone feel at home and allows for easy refills.

This holiday season, make your gathering unforgettable with the perfect pairing of Fried Mac and Cheese and Bread & Butter Chardonnay. With simple ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and the right wine, you’ll be able to entertain with ease. Cheers to a deliciously festive holiday!