Fried Mac & Cheese Bites

Directions

1. 1
   Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, melt butter in 2-quart saucepan over low heat. Stir in flour and salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is bubbly.
3. 3
   Slowly whisk in milk into the flour mixture, whisking constantly, until sauce is smooth. Bring sauce to a boil; reduce to low heat and simmer for 1 minute.
4. 4
   Stir in the shredded Mac & Cheese blend. Continue to cook, while stirring, until cheese is melted.
5. 5
   Remove from heat and fold the pasta into the cheese sauce.
6. 6
   Spray 6-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon macaroni and cheese into pan; packing it down slightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until macaroni and cheese is completely cooled.
7. 7
   Place flour, eggs and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Cut chilled macaroni and cheese into 16 pieces, cutting pan 4x
8. 8
   Dredge each macaroni and cheese bite as follows: First coat bite lightly with flour, then dip in eggs, then coat with bread crumbs.
9. 9
   Heat oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Cook about half of the bites at one time, frying bites for 1-1 1/2 minutes per side.
10. 10
    Drain bites on paper towels. Serve immediately.