Description
These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Using refrigerated mac and cheese and a triple-layer breading technique, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to deep frying while still delivering a crunchy, golden exterior. Perfect for parties, game day, or using up leftovers.
Ingredients
4 cups prepared macaroni and cheese (refrigerated)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
1 teaspoon smoked paprika, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
2 eggs
1 tablespoon milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Optional: 1/4 cup ranch, garlic aioli, or chipotle mayo (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and the air fryer to 370°F.
- Spread the breadcrumbs evenly on a baking sheet. Bake them for 3 minutes, then shake and bake for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Form the chilled mac and cheese into golf ball-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
- In a second bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk.
- In a third bowl, toss the toasted breadcrumbs with the remaining salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Coat each mac and cheese ball in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Spray the air fryer basket and the balls with cooking spray.
- Air fry 6–9 balls at a time for 8–10 minutes until they are golden brown.
- Keep warm in the oven while cooking the remaining balls. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Cheese Variations: Use different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both in the mac and cheese.
Herb Additions: Add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb coating for extra flavor.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mac and cheese for a spicy kick.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, air fry at 370°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
