Mac and Cheese Bacon Spinach (Print Version)

Crispy poppers with creamy mac, cheddar, bacon, and spinach. Ideal as starters or quick bites.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked

→ Cheese Sauce

02 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
03 - 1/2 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Bacon and Spinach

08 - 6 slices bacon, cooked and finely chopped
09 - 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped

→ Coating

10 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
13 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
15 - Vegetable oil, for frying

# Directions:

01 - Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan over moderate heat, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking constantly until a smooth, thickened base forms, approximately 2 minutes.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine until the cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
04 - Fold in cooked macaroni, chopped bacon, and finely chopped spinach until evenly incorporated.
05 - Spread mac and cheese blend over a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow to cool, then refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes to firm.
06 - Shape the chilled mixture into 1.5-inch diameter balls.
07 - Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika and garlic powder.
08 - Coat each mac and cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in the seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture until completely covered.
09 - Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Fry coated poppers in batches for 2 to 3 minutes each, turning for even browning, until golden and crisp. Transfer cooked poppers to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
10 - Arrange poppers on a serving platter and enjoy warm with your preferred dipping sauce.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under one hour for last minute gatherings
  • Perfect mix of creamy cheese smoky bacon and fresh greens all in one bite
  • Works for both kids and adults and can be made ahead
  • Crowd pleaser that is both crunchy outside and soft and flavorful inside
02 -
  • Excellent source of protein and flavor in one portable bite
  • Can be adapted for vegetarians by skipping the bacon and increasing spinach
  • Freezes well either before or after frying perfect for meal prep
03 -
  • Chill the mixture thoroughly before shaping or the balls will not hold together
  • Double dip in egg and breadcrumbs if you want an extra thick super crispy crust
  • Work in small batches when frying to keep the oil temperature steady for best results

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