Irresistible Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls in 30 Minutes Recipe

Introduction

These Irresistible Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack for any occasion. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, they come together quickly and easily in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
2. Step 2: Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to allow it to firm up and make shaping easier.
3. Step 3: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Step 4: Whisk the egg in a separate bowl, then dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg to coat evenly.
5. Step 5: Roll the egg-coated balls in breadcrumbs until fully covered.
6. Step 6: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
7. Step 7: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with butter to prevent sticking.
8. Step 8: Place the mac and cheese balls in the basket, making sure to leave some space between them for even cooking.
9. Step 9: Cook the balls for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
10. Step 10: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, crispy mac and cheese balls.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the mixture before shaping.
• Try mixing in some cooked bacon bits or chopped herbs like parsley for a twist.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be baked in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp them back up, or warm in the oven. These are best enjoyed fresh but reheat well without losing their crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these mac and cheese balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the balls ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook. Just make sure to cook them within a day or two for the best texture and flavor.

What type of cheese works best for these mac and cheese balls?

Cheddar cheese is a great choice because it melts well and offers a classic flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different taste and extra gooeyness.

Irresistible Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls in 30 Minutes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 126 reviews

These Irresistible Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, made with tender macaroni, melted cheddar cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Ready in just 30 minutes using an air fryer, this recipe offers a deliciously cheesy snack or appetizer with a perfectly golden crust.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12–15 mac and cheese balls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Mac and Cheese Mixture

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Coating and Binding

• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp butter (for greasing air fryer basket)

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the macaroni and cheese mixture for 1 hour to allow it to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
3. Shape Balls: Using your hands, take portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into small, bite-sized balls.
4. Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until smooth, to be used as a binding agent for the breadcrumb coating.
5. Coat with Egg: Dip each macaroni ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated.
6. Breadcrumb Coating: Roll each egg-coated ball in breadcrumbs, covering all sides evenly for a crispy finish.
7. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
8. Grease Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with butter to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
9. Arrange Balls: Place the coated mac and cheese balls in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them for proper air circulation.
10. Cook: Air fry the balls for 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
11. Serve: Carefully remove the mac and cheese balls and serve them warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• You can substitute cheddar cheese with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• For extra crispiness, double coat the balls by repeating the egg wash and breadcrumb steps.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• These can be served with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
• Leftover mac and cheese balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer.

Keywords: air fryer, mac and cheese balls, appetizer, cheesy snack, crispy mac and cheese, easy recipe, quick snack