Macaroni Balls


Ingredients:

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Optional Dipping Sauce:

  • Marinara sauce or ketchup for dipping

Instructions:

  • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the milk, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined and the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese mixture. Let it cool slightly.
  • Once the macaroni mixture has cooled enough to handle, take small portions and shape them into balls using your hands. Aim for bite-sized balls that are easy for kids to eat.
  • Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Roll each macaroni ball in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
  • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated macaroni balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding.
  • Fry for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried macaroni balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  • Let the macaroni balls cool slightly before packing them into a lunch box or serving as a snack. Serve with marinara sauce or ketchup for dipping.

Tips:

  • Variations: Add chopped cooked ham, bacon bits, or diced vegetables to the macaroni mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the macaroni balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Benefits:

  • Easy Macaroni Balls are a fun and delicious way to repurpose leftover macaroni and cheese or cooked pasta.
  • They make a great finger food for kids’ lunch boxes, parties, or after-school snacks.

These easy Macaroni Balls are sure to be a hit with kids! They combine the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the fun of crispy, bite-sized balls.

Enjoy making and sharing this tasty treat with your little ones!