Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls
If you're a fan of mac and cheese, then you'll love this delicious twist on a classic dish - Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls. These bite-sized morsels are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy macaroni and crispy, golden brown coating. They make a great appetizer, snack, or party food that is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Additional Time:
3 hrs
Total Time:
3 hrs 40 mins
Servings:
24
Yield:
24 balls
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Cook macaroni pasta from the dinner package in boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender, 7 to 8 minutes. Drain; do not rinse. Return pasta to the pot.
Step 2
Stir cheese sauce from the dinner package, milk, and margarine into pasta. Mix in Cheddar cheese until well combined and cheese is melted. Transfer macaroni and cheese to a bowl and refrigerate until firm, 2 hours to overnight.
Step 3
Scoop chilled macaroni and cheese into 1 1/2-inch balls and place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 1 hour.
Step 4
Preheat an air fryer to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) according to manufacturer's instructions. Spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 5
Place beaten eggs in a bowl. Mix together panko, bread crumbs, salt, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl.
Step 6
Dip each frozen macaroni and cheese ball in beaten eggs, then press in bread crumb mixture to coat. Place coated balls into the prepared air fryer basket in a single layer with space between; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 7
Cook in the preheated air fryer for 6 to 8 minutes. Turn over and fry until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes more.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
87
Calories
4g
Fat
9g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Complement
To make Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls, you start by cooking your favorite mac and cheese recipe. Once the macaroni and cheese is prepared and cooled, you form it into small balls and then coat them in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture. The balls are then air fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy interior. The air frying method creates a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried mac and cheese balls, without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture. These irresistible treats are easy to make and are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. So, if you're looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy mac and cheese, give Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls a try!
