7 Perfect Party Snack Recipes

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while processed cheese melts easily.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier while margarine is often cheaper.

macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: elbow pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while elbow pasta is often less expensive.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: panko

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Panko gives a lighter texture, while crushed crackers can be more affordable.

Boil potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes, then drain and cool.

Peel and mash the potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.

Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.

Gradually add milk, whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, then mix in cooked macaroni.

Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.

Form mashed potatoes into small balls, then create a hollow in each.

Fill the hollow with the mac and cheese mixture, sealing the potato around it.

Dip each ball in beaten egg, then roll in bread crumbs to coat.

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the stuffed tater tots in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens