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.
