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Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Transform the classic comfort food into crunchy, bite-sized balls with this easy air fryer recipe, perfect for snacks or party appetizers.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 balls
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Macaroni and Cheese Base
  • 2 cups macaroni and cheese Use homemade or store-bought, cooled.
Breading Mixture
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko or seasoned breadcrumbs can be used for added crunch.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
Binding Ingredients
  • 2 eggs Beaten.
  • to taste Cooking spray For air frying.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prepare your macaroni and cheese if you don't have any ready. Allow it to cool slightly.
  2. Once the macaroni and cheese is cooled, scoop it out and form into small balls (about 1-2 inches).
  3. In a bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the beaten egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  2. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the balls in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they aren't touching.
  3. Spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray.
  4. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
  5. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve the balls with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or sriracha mayo for dipping. Store extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness.