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Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls Bliss

Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, creamy within, and a guilt-free indulgence.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese
  • 1 cup Elbow Macaroni Can swap with penne or cavatappi.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Essential for roux; reserve some for dredging.
  • 1 cup Milk Provides creamy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder Elevates savory profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Main ingredient for gooey filling.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds sharp flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Initial crispiness layer.
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs For extra crunch.
  • as needed Vegetable Oil for Spraying Lightly spray for a crispy finish.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • medium saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook 1 cup of elbow macaroni until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour for 2 minutes, then slowly add 1 cup of milk until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Season the Sauce: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes.
  4. Melt the Cheeses: Mix in 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan until fully melted and combined.
  5. Combine and Cool: Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce, cool for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Form the Balls: Roll 1-2 tablespoons of mixture into balls, place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Prepare for Coating: Set up bowls with beaten egg and a mixture of 1 cup bread crumbs and 1 cup panko.
  8. Coat the Balls: Dip balls in egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture. Place back on baking sheet.
  9. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Air Fry the Mac and Cheese Balls: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow mac and cheese mixture to cool before shaping for best results. Experiment with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara.

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