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Crispy Pulled Pork Mac Bites

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These crispy pulled pork mac bites combine smoky pulled pork and creamy mac and cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy panko crust. Perfect for Super Bowl parties or any gathering, they’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked macaroni (about 200g), cooled and drained
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (170g)
  • 1/2 cup milk (120ml), whole or 2%
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (28g), melted
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese (60g), softened
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cooked pulled pork (about 120g), shredded
  • 2 tbsp BBQ sauce, plus more for dipping
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (90g)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g), optional
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Cooking spray or oil, for baking or frying

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar, milk, melted butter, cream cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix until creamy and thick. If runny, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
  2. In a small bowl, toss shredded pulled pork with BBQ sauce until well coated. Add a pinch of smoked paprika if desired.
  3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mac mixture into your palm, flatten slightly, place about 1 teaspoon of pulled pork in the center, cover with more mac mixture, and roll into a ball. Repeat to make 20-24 bites.
  4. Place the bites on a tray and freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
  5. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with Parmesan and smoked paprika. Dip each bite in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing gently to coat. Place back on the tray.
  6. To bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray bites lightly with oil and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  7. To air fry: Heat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange bites in a single layer, spray with oil, and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
  8. To deep fry: Heat oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning for even browning, then drain on paper towels.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Notes

For gluten-free bites, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based cheese and milk. Chill the bites well before breading and baking to help them hold their shape. Double-dip in egg and panko for extra crunch. Bites can be made ahead and baked from frozen—just add a few minutes to the cooking time. Serve with BBQ sauce, ranch, or chipotle mayo for dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, mac and cheese, Super Bowl snack, party appetizer, crispy bites, comfort food, game day, finger food

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-pulled-pork-mac-bites-recipe-for-the-perfect-super-bowl-snack/