Description
These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, offering a fun twist on classic comfort food. Ready in just 30 minutes, these bite-sized treats are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party food. Made with simple ingredients and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
2 cups cooked macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crunch)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the air fryer basket)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
Step 3: Shape the Mac and Cheese Balls
After chilling, shape the mixture into small balls using your hands, ensuring they are compact and hold together.
Step 4: Coat the Balls
Whisk the egg in a bowl. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg, ensuring they are fully coated.
Roll the balls in breadcrumbs, making sure they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Preheat and Air Fry
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with butter.
Place the balls in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for even cooking.
Step 6: Cook
Cook the mac and cheese balls for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the mac and cheese balls warm as a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
Chill the Mixture: Chilling the mac and cheese mixture is essential to help the balls hold their shape while cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, simply double the recipe to make more mac and cheese balls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
