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Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

This recipe transforms classic macaroni and cheese into delightful, crispy air-fried balls. After preparing and chilling the cheesy pasta, it's formed into bite-sized spheres, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and air-fried to golden perfection. These savory appetizers or snacks offer a satisfying crunch with a creamy, cheesy interior, perfect for entertaining or a fun treat.
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Total Time 3 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 24 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 3827.3
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 7.25 ounce package macaroni and cheese dinner mix (such as Kraft®)
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons margarine
  • 0.75 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
  • nonstick cooking spray
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 0.5 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 0.5 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • 1 Saucepan For cooking the macaroni and cheese
  • 2 Mixing Bowls For preparing ingredients and breading station
  • 1 Air Fryer Essential for crispy results
  • 1 Baking Sheet or Plate For chilling the mac and cheese mixture
  • 1 Small Scoop For uniform mac and cheese balls (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package directions, then stir in milk, margarine, and sharp Cheddar cheese until well combined and melted.
  2. Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture onto a shallow baking sheet or plate, pressing it down evenly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and firm.
  3. Once chilled, scoop out portions of the mac and cheese and roll them into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are tightly packed.
  4. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another shallow bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, seasoned bread crumbs, salt, and garlic powder.
  5. Dip each mac and cheese ball first into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then roll thoroughly in the bread crumb mixture to coat completely.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
  7. Arrange the breaded mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Lightly spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray.
  8. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  9. Remove the air-fried mac and cheese balls and serve immediately, perhaps with a side of marinara or a spicy aioli for dipping.

Notes

Ensure the macaroni and cheese mixture is well-chilled (at least 2 hours, preferably longer) before forming balls. This is crucial for them to hold their shape and prevent breaking during coating and frying. For a richer flavor, consider using real butter instead of margarine and adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the mac and cheese mixture. Achieve a golden, crispy crust by lightly spraying the breaded balls with nonstick cooking spray or brushing with a thin layer of melted butter before air frying. This helps the panko crisp up beautifully. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches to ensure even air circulation and crispness. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than frying. Consider a blend of cheeses beyond just sharp cheddar for a more complex flavor profile, such as a mix of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan.