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Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls You’ll Love

Delightful Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls that are crispy on the outside and decadently creamy on the inside—perfect appetizer for any gathering.
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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: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese Filling
  • 2 cups Elbow macaroni Can swap with penne or cavatappi.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Margarine can be used.
  • ¼ cup All-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk or half-and-half is best.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic powder Adjust if using fresh garlic.
  • ½ teaspoon Onion powder Fresh onion can be swapped.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon Black pepper White pepper can be used.
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Experiment with different cheeses.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Consider a flax egg for vegan option.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Bread crumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used.
  • as needed Vegetable oil for spraying Olive oil or avocado oil can be substitutes.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Medium saucepan
  • large pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Shallow dishes

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, cooking until thickened.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  5. Fold in the cooked macaroni and allow the mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Shape the cooled mixture into small balls about 1-2 inches in diameter and place them on a lined baking sheet.
  7. Beat one egg in a shallow dish, and mix bread crumbs and panko in another dish for coating.
  8. Coat each macaroni ball in egg, then breadcrumbs, then place back on the baking sheet.
  9. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes, then spray the balls with oil.
  10. Air fry the balls in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
  11. Remove the balls from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These balls are best served fresh and pair wonderfully with marinara or spicy ranch dips.

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