Description
Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are delightful bites packed with cheesy goodness and a crispy exterior, perfect for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil spray (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, yielding about 12-15 balls.
- In a shallow dish, beat the eggs. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the mac and cheese balls in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Spray the tops of the balls lightly with olive oil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- If you’re vegan, try using a plant-based cheese and a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or jalapeños to the mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls, Mac and Cheese, Air Fryer Recipes, Comfort Food