Mac and Cheese Rings

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These Mac and Cheese Onion Rings are an irresistible appetizer for a party or game day get-together.

Prep Time20

Cook Time10

Total Time4 30

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: mac and cheese ring, stuffed onion rings

Servings: rings

Calories: 342kcal

Author: Cindy

Cook the elbow pasta according to the package directions. (While it's cooking, you can start preparing the onion rings below.)
Add milk and garlic powder to the drained pasta. Stir in cheese and microwave for 30 seconds. Mix until creamy and set aside.

Cut one onion into 1/2 inch thick slices and separate into rings.
Arrange small rings inside large rings so there is a 1/2-inch gap in between. Repeat until you have 10 pairs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spoon mac and cheese into the gaps to fill, packing it in firmly with your fingers. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 2 hours to allow the pieces to harden.
Fill a deep fryer or medium saucepan with 2 inches of oil and heat to 325°F. Line a plate with paper towel and set aside. Place the flour, beaten egg and breadcrumbs into separate shallow bowls.
Remove the stuffed onion rings from the freezer. Dredge each piece into flour, then egg and then breadcrumbs. Then dredge in egg and breadcrumbs one more time.
Using kitchen tongs, place one ring into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes until golden. Remove to the prepared plate and repeat for the remaining rings, frying 2 at a time. Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Mac and Cheese: One box of mac and cheese is enough if using store-bought instead of making homemade.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed rings ahead of time and freeze, so you only need to dredge and deep fry before serving (10-15 minutes total time).