Macaroni & Cheese Bites from Swensons feature creamy, cheesy macaroni coated in a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, offering a deliciously gooey interior contrasted with a crunchy exterior.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Slotted spoon
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
- Shallow bowls (for breading station)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Using a combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich and balanced cheesy flavor in the macaroni mixture. Whole milk and unsalted butter help achieve a creamy texture, while the all-purpose flour thickens the sauce for the perfect consistency. Panko breadcrumbs are essential for the crispy, golden crust that contrasts with the gooey interior. Make sure to evenly coat the bites in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy and well-breaded exterior. Your Macaroni & Cheese Bites from Swensons copycat menu will deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite, just like the original.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni in a saucepan of boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In the same saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat; stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl; mix until thoroughly coated.
- Spread mixture in an even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet; let cool slightly.
- Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
- Cut chilled macaroni and cheese into bite-sized pieces using a knife and cutting board.
- Set up breading station with three shallow bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
- Place breaded bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry macaroni & cheese bites in batches with a slotted spoon until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Drain fried bites on a paper towel-lined plate or colander.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Macaroni & Cheese Bites from Swensons copycat menu boasts a perfectly creamy cheese filling with a crunchy breadcrumb coating. If sharp cheddar is unavailable, you can substitute with aged white cheddar or a blend of cheddar and gouda for a similar tangy flavor. For a lighter option, baking the bites instead of deep frying will reduce oil use while maintaining a crispy texture if you preheat the oven properly. You may also experiment with different breadcrumb types, such as panko for extra crunch or seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. When handling the macaroni, ensure it is cooked al dente to prevent the bites from becoming mushy during frying.
Tips
Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent the bites from becoming mushy after frying. When making the cheese sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture that coats the pasta evenly. Chilling the macaroni mixture thoroughly allows it to firm up, making it easier to cut and maintain shape during the breading and frying process. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) for crispy, golden bites without absorbing excess oil.
Nutritions
Macaroni & Cheese Bites from Swensons provide a rich source of protein and calcium primarily from the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses used in the recipe. The elbow macaroni contributes carbohydrates that fuel your body, while the eggs add additional protein and essential nutrients. The use of whole milk and butter increases the calorie and fat content, making these bites a satisfying comfort food. You can balance these indulgent bites with a side of vegetables to round out your meal nutritionally.
Storage
Store your macaroni & cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and crispness. To keep them crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 8-10 minutes instead of microwaving, which can make the breadcrumb crust soggy. For longer storage, freeze the bites on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to 1 month.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with the cheese blend by adding smoked gouda or pepper jack for a smoky or spicy twist. Swap panko breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or pretzels to achieve a different crispy texture in the coating. Bake the bites instead of frying them by spraying each with cooking oil and baking at 400degF (200degC) for 15 minutes to create a lighter, less oily version. Incorporate finely chopped cooked bacon or jalapenos into the macaroni mixture for extra flavor and heat.
Allergies
Macaroni & Cheese Bites from Swensons contain multiple common allergens, including dairy from cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, butter, and milk, as well as eggs used in the batter. The presence of wheat in the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs poses a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have food allergies, carefully check these ingredients to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Swensons' Macaroni & Cheese Bites offer a crispy, golden exterior paired with creamy, cheesy macaroni inside, creating a perfect comfort food experience. The blend of sharp cheddar and smooth mozzarella cheese enhances the rich flavor profile that keeps customers coming back. Making a copycat version allows You to enjoy this popular side dish at home, controlling ingredients for freshness and customizing spice levels. Recreating this favorite highlights its irresistible taste and satisfying texture that Swensons perfected.