Description
Deliciously crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these Air Fryer Fried Mac & Cheese Balls are a perfect family favorite that turns every gathering into a joyful occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Boil elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Roll the chilled mixture into bite-sized balls.
- Dip each ball in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Place balls in a single layer in the basket, spray lightly with cooking spray, and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For added heat, mix in diced jalapeños or sautéed mushrooms for a richer flavor. Allow them to cool slightly before serving as the cheese inside can be very hot.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 balls
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, appetizer, air fryer, fried food, comfort food
