Gluten-Free Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Gluten-Free Fried Mac and Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort food with a crunchy twist! Perfect for parties, game days, or indulgent snacking, this recipe transforms creamy, cheddar-loaded mac and cheese into bite-sized delights that are both rich and satisfying. Made with gluten-free elbow macaroni, a velvety cheddar cheese sauce, and crunchy gluten-free breadcrumbs, these golden-brown bites ensure everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities, can enjoy the cheesy decadence. The preparation process involves a mix of cooling, rolling, and frying for that perfect crisp texture, while hints of paprika and black pepper add a subtle kick of flavor. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat that's as crave-worthy as it is gluten-free!

Nutriscore Rating: 48/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 225 grams Gluten-free elbow macaroni
• 200 grams Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 tablespoons Gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 240 milliliters Whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
• 2 large Eggs
• 150 grams Gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 500 milliliters Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

Step 1

Cook the gluten-free elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the gluten-free flour and whisk until smooth to form a roux.

Step 3

Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, along with the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined.

Step 6

Spread the mac and cheese mixture onto a baking tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm enough to shape.

Step 7

Once the mixture is firm, use a spoon or your hands to scoop and roll it into 16 small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 8

In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Place the gluten-free breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl.

Step 9

Dip each mac and cheese ball into the beaten eggs, then roll in the gluten-free breadcrumbs to fully coat.

Step 10

In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

Step 11

Fry the mac and cheese balls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Step 12

Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 13

Serve the gluten-free mac and cheese balls warm, with your choice of dipping sauce if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1480.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7143.1

Total Fat 616.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 135.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 678.0mg	0%
Sodium 4998.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 325.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.6g	0%
Total Sugars 18.6g
Protein 97.4g	0%

Vitamin D 233.8IU	0%
Calcium 1924.9mg	0%
Iron 9.4mg	0%
Potassium 962.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 76.6%

Protein: 5.4%

Carbs: 18.0%