Mac & Cheese Jalapeño Poppers
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Ritz logo, classic cracker brandSwedish Fish Mini candy, assorted flavors, family size, soft & chewy, 1 lb bag

Mac & Cheese Jalapeño Poppers

These fun appetizer bites will add a bit of spice to your party. Bite sized balls of jalapeño spiked macaroni and cheese are fried crisp for a cheesy snack.

Prep time:

0 min

Total time:

0 min

Servings:

Makes 30 servings.

Ingredient list

  • 1 pkg. (14 oz.) macaroni and cheese dinner
  • 48 RITZ Crackers, finely crushed, divided
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled
  • 2 tsp. chopped drained pickled jalapeño nacho slices
  • ¼ lb. (4 oz.) pasteurized cheese product loaf, cut into 30 cubes
  • vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1

Prepare macaroni and cheese in large saucepan as directed on package. Add 1 cup cracker crumbs, egg, bacon and jalapeños; mix well. Cool 20 min.

2

Shape macaroni and cheese mixture into 30 balls, using scant 1/4 cup macaroni mixture for each ball.

3

Insert 1 cheese product cube into center of each ball, completely enclosing cube. Roll, 1 at a time, in remaining cracker crumbs until evenly coated.

4

Place in single layer on waxed paper-covered baking sheet.

5

Heat oil to 375°F in deep fryer. Add macaroni balls, a few at a time; cook 2 min. or until golden brown. Drain well.

6

Serve warm.

Recipe Tips

  • Note

    If you don't have a deep fryer, you can cook the macaroni balls in hot oil in a large saucepan instead.

  • Make Ahead

    The macaroni balls can be prepared ahead of time. Refrigerate up to 4 hours before cooking as directed.

  • Make it Easy

    Use a small (1-oz.) ice cream scoop to portion the macaroni mixture for each popper.

Nutrition facts

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