Take your appetizer game to the next level with these Spicy Kimchi & Caramelized Onion Mac ’n’ Cheese Bombs. These bite-sized bombs are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and loaded with bold, unexpected flavor from chopped kimchi and sweet caramelized onions. Whether you’re serving them at a party, game night, or just looking for an indulgent snack, they deliver serious wow factor in every bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
This is comfort food with an attitude. The creamy mac ’n’ cheese base is amped up with spicy, funky kimchi and mellowed with deeply sweet caramelized onions. Once fried to golden perfection, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by a warm, gooey, flavor-packed center. They’re fun to make, fun to eat, and totally unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Cheddar cheese: Try a blend with mozzarella, pepper jack, or smoked gouda for deeper flavor.
- Kimchi: Use spicy or mild depending on your heat tolerance. Squeeze out excess juice before chopping.
- Breadcrumbs: Use panko for a super crispy finish.
- Milk: Any milk will work—whole milk makes it extra creamy.
- Caramelized onions: Make ahead to save time, or sub with sautéed shallots for a shortcut.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the cheese sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth. - Add the cheese & spices:
Stir in shredded cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. - Combine the mix:
Stir in cooked macaroni, chopped kimchi, and caramelized onions. Mix well to coat everything in the cheese sauce. - Chill the mixture:
Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or freeze for 20 minutes) until firm enough to shape. - Form the bombs:
Scoop and shape the cold mixture into small balls using your hands or a cookie scoop. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat completely. - Heat the oil:
Bring oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot. - Fry in batches:
Carefully lower the mac ’n’ cheese bombs into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. - Serve hot:
Enjoy as-is or serve with dipping sauces like sriracha mayo, ranch, or spicy ketchup.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip chilling—it’s key for shaping and keeping them from falling apart during frying.
- Use cold hands when rolling to prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Test fry one ball first to make sure it holds together and adjusts your oil temperature if needed.
- Double the batch—these go fast!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Add to your next snack spread alongside Beer Cheese Dip.
- Serve with Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fusion game-day lineup.
- For a full meal, pair with Dorito Casserole or a big crunchy salad.
- Cool things down with a glass of Blueberry Lemonade.
- Finish with something sweet like Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store uncooked balls in the fridge for 1–2 days, or freeze for up to a month.
- Fried leftovers can be crisped up in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving—it softens the coating.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
- This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Kimchi & Caramelized Onion Mac ’n’ Cheese Bombs are proof that finger food can be exciting, elegant, and loaded with character. The contrast of creamy, crispy, tangy, and spicy makes these little bites unforgettable—and totally addictive. Make a batch, grab your dipping sauce of choice, and prepare for compliments.
Tried them? Snap a photo, tag us, and follow for more craveable bites from ChefManiac!
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