Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls

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KloPoKitchen (@klopokitchen3445)

Transform your leftover Mac n Cheese into delicious and crunchy balls with a spicy twist using Hot Cheetos.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
35min
Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 2 balls)

Main Ingredients

  • 1cup
    chilled leftover Mac n Cheese
  • 1cup
    mozzarella cheese
  • 1
    bag Hot Cheetos
  • 1/2cup
    Panko
  • 2
    eggs

How to make Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls

Preparation

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a bowl, mix the chilled leftover Mac n Cheese with mozzarella cheese.

  3. Form the mixture into small balls.

  4. Crush the Hot Cheetos into fine crumbs.

  5. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.

  6. Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then roll them in the crushed Hot Cheetos followed by the Panko.

  7. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet.

  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra crunch, you can double coat the balls by repeating the egg and Hot Cheetos step.

  2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

FAQS

  1. How do I make Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls from scratch?

    To make Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls from scratch, start by preparing your macaroni and cheese. Once it's chilled, mix it with mozzarella cheese, form small balls, and coat them with crushed Hot Cheetos and Panko breadcrumbs. Finally, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

  2. Can I use gluten-free ingredients to make Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls?

    Yes, you can make gluten-free Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls by using gluten-free macaroni and cheese, gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs, and ensuring that the Hot Cheetos you use are gluten-free. Always check the labels to confirm dietary compatibility.

  3. What can I substitute for Hot Cheetos in this Mac n Cheese Balls recipe?

    If you want to substitute Hot Cheetos, you can use regular cheese-flavored chips or spicy tortilla chips for a similar crunch and flavor. Alternatively, you could use crushed pretzels for a different texture, but keep in mind that the spice level will vary.

  4. How should I store leftover Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls?

    To store leftover Crunchy Cheesy Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking; just make sure to thaw them before baking to ensure even cooking.

  5. What are some good dipping sauces to pair with Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls?

    Hot Cheetos Mac n Cheese Balls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or a creamy cheese sauce for a delicious contrast to the crunchy exterior. You could also try a tangy barbecue sauce for a sweet and spicy combination.

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KloPoKitchen

(@klopokitchen3445)

Kitchen/cooking Self taught little chef 🧑‍🍳 Loves Food 🍱 (Girl) 👩 Kid content creator/editor...

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