Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that combines creamy mac and cheese with a crispy, golden coating. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun twist on classic mac and cheese!

Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray (for air frying)

Instructions:

1. Chill the Mac and Cheese:
   • If you’re using freshly made macaroni and cheese, let it cool for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will help it firm up, making it easier to form into balls.
2. Prepare the Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese with the shredded cheese. Stir well to incorporate.
3. Form the Balls:
   • Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the mac and cheese mixture and form it into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
4. Dredge the Balls:
   • Set up a dredging station:
     • In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
     • In another bowl, beat the eggs.
     • In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Roll each mac and cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Air Fry:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they’re not touching.
   • Spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
6. Serve:
   • Once cooked, carefully remove the mac and cheese balls from the air fryer. Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips:

• Freezing Option: You can freeze the formed but uncooked mac and cheese balls for later use. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, you can air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Flavor Variations: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or chopped vegetables to the mac and cheese mixture for added flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors.

Enjoy!

These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a crowd-pleasing snack that combines creamy and cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for any occasion!