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Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

air fryer mac and cheese balls - featured image
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Golden, crispy on the outside and creamy, cheesy on the inside, these air fryer mac and cheese balls are the ultimate party snack or comfort food treat. Easy to make, less greasy than deep-fried, and perfect for using up leftover mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked mac and cheese, chilled (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk (any type)
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine chilled mac and cheese, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until well blended. If the mixture is too loose, add extra shredded cheese.
  2. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place on a lined baking sheet or plate.
  3. Freeze the balls for 20–30 minutes until firm.
  4. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt and black pepper.
  5. Roll each frozen ball in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg wash, then coat in panko mixture. Press gently to help the crumbs stick. Return to the baking sheet.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
  7. Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each. Spritz lightly with olive oil spray.
  8. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite dip such as ranch, marinara, or spicy ketchup.

Notes

For best results, use well-chilled mac and cheese. Freezing the balls before breading helps them hold together and ensures a crispy shell. Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunch. To make gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen before air frying.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, mac and cheese balls, party snack, appetizer, comfort food, crispy, cheese, easy, kid-friendly, finger food

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/air-fryer-mac-and-cheese-balls-recipe-easy-crispy-party-snack/