Description
Deliciously crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a perfect appetizer or snack. Made with chilled macaroni and cheese combined with melty cheeses and coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust, they cook quickly in the air fryer for a healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Mixture
- 3 cups prepared macaroni and cheese, chilled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Combine the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the chilled macaroni and cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
- Form the Balls: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze the balls for 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and hold their shape.
- Prepare for Breading: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Balls: Roll each chilled mac and cheese ball first in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Balls: Arrange the breaded balls in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Using cold macaroni and cheese helps the balls hold their shape better during shaping and breading.
- If the mixture is too soft, freezing before breading ensures the balls stay intact while cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or chopped jalapeños to the mac and cheese mixture.
