Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked macaroni pasta
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crunch)
– Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying
Instructions
Making Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls is a fun and easy process. Follow these steps to create your own delicious bites:
1. Prepare the Mac and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cheeses are evenly distributed.
2. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will help the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape.
3. Form the Balls: Once chilled, take about a tablespoon of the mac and cheese mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
4. Set Up the Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
5. Bread the Balls: Roll each mac and cheese ball in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is well-coated.
6. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
7. Air Fry the Balls: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the mac and cheese balls in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
8. Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy.
9. Check for Doneness: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
10. Serve: Once cooked, remove the balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 balls
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 6g