Description
These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and make a perfect appetizer or snack. With a cheesy center and a crunchy coating, they are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Balls:
- 3 cups prepared mac and cheese (chilled and firm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Breading:
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray for air frying
- Ranch or marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Mac and Cheese Balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of chilled mac and cheese and roll into a ball. Press shredded cheddar cheese into the center of each ball and seal well. Freeze for 20–30 minutes.
- Coat the Balls: Prepare three bowls with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each ball in flour, then egg, and coat in panko.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray balls with olive oil. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use chilled mac and cheese for best results. Double-coating with panko adds extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mac and cheese balls
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
