Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls
Air fryer mac and cheese balls are crispy and creamy and lower in fat than the deep-fried version.
- Preparation:
- Cooking:
- Total:
- Serves: 4 persons
Ingredients
- 1cup panko bread crumbs
- 4cups prepared macaroni and cheese (refrigerated)
- 3tablespoons flour
- 1teaspoon salt
- 1teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½teaspoon garlic powder
- 2eggs
- 1tablespoon milk
Instructions
Step 1
Gather the ingredients. Heat the oven to 400 F and the air fryer to 370 F.Step 2
Spread the breadcrumbs onto a baking sheet, shaking to create an even layer. Bake for 3 minutes, then shake and bake for another 1 to 2 minutes or until they are mostly toasted.Step 3
Form the refrigerated macaroni and cheese into the size of golf balls. Place them onto a baking sheet.Step 4
Whisk together the flour with 1/2 teaspoon each of the salt, 1/2 teaspoon of the black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of the smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of the garlic powder.Step 5
Whisk together the 2 eggs with milk in a shallow bowl.Step 6
Toss the breadcrumbs with the remaining salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.Step 7
Roll the macaroni and cheese balls into the flour to coat.Step 8
Then, dip the flour-coated ball into the egg mixture, rolling to coat. Transfer the cheese ball to the breadcrumb mixture and roll to coat, patting to help the breading adhere.Step 9
Repeat with the rest of the macaroni and cheese balls.Step 10
Spray the basket of the air fryer with cooking spray along with the mac and cheese balls, too. Add 6 to 9 of the cheese balls into your air fryer, depending on how large it is. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.Step 11
Remove them from the air fryer basket and keep warm in your oven. Repeat with the second batch of mac and cheese balls. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chipotle mayo, ranch , or garlic aioli . Enjoy.