Description
Bacon Mac & Cheese Bombs are a delightful appetizer or snack. They feature a crispy golden exterior filled with gooey, cheesy macaroni and savory bacon. This recipe is easy to make and can be deep-fried, air-fried, or oven-baked.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups chilled mac & cheese (firm, not creamy)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 12 slices bacon (standard-cut works best)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten (with 1 tbsp water or milk)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
- Oil for frying (or cooking spray for air fryer/oven)
Instructions
- Prep the Filling: Mix the shredded cheddar into the chilled mac & cheese. Scoop and roll into 12 firm balls. Chill or freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Wrap in Bacon: Wrap each mac & cheese ball with one bacon slice, overlapping the ends slightly. Chill again for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: Bowl 1: flour Bowl 2: beaten eggs Bowl 3: breadcrumbs. Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure even coverage.
- Choose Your Cooking Method: Deep Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry 3–4 bombs at a time for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crispy. Drain on a wire rack. Air Fry: Place in the basket, spray lightly with oil, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Bake: Place on a rack over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, until crisp and sizzling.
- Rest & Serve: Let the bombs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Chill time is key for easy shaping.
- Standard bacon works best for even crisping.
- Bread and freeze the bombs for up to 1 month. Cook from frozen, adding extra time.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep Fry, Air Fry, Oven Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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