Fried Mac and Cheese Balls (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 3 cups macaroni and cheese, homemade or store-bought
02 - 2 cups vegetable oil, or more as needed
03 - 2 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
05 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

# Instructions:

01 - Place macaroni and cheese into the refrigerator until firm, about 3-4 hours.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium high heat.
03 - Using a small cookie scoop, roll macaroni and cheese into 1 1/4-to-1 1/2-inch balls, forming about 12.
04 - Working one at a time, dip balls into eggs, then dredge in Panko breadcrumbs, pressing to coat.
05 - Working in batches, add balls to the Dutch oven and cook until evenly golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with chives, if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Refrigerating the macaroni and cheese helps maintain its shape when frying.