Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a fun and cheesy twist on a classic comfort food! Imagine crispy, golden brown balls of macaroni and cheese, filled with melted cheddar cheese and air-fried to perfection. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover mac and cheese, and it’s surprisingly easy to make, thanks to the convenience of your air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-Friendly: These bite-sized cheesy balls are a fun and delicious snack or appetizer that kids will love.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a quick and easy snack or party appetizer.
• Crispy and Cheesy: The cornflake coating creates a crispy outer layer, while the inside is filled with warm, gooey mac and cheese and melted cheddar cheese.
• Healthier than Deep-Fried: Air frying is a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it uses less oil.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Leftover mac and cheese: Chilled and firm, it forms the base of the mac and cheese balls.
• Corn flakes: Processed into fine crumbs to create a crispy coating.
• Eggs: Whisked with seasonings to create an egg wash that helps the breading adhere.
• Cheddar cheese: Cut into cubes and adds a cheesy surprise in the center of each ball.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the egg wash.
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the egg wash.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Process the corn flakes in a food processor until they are finely crushed. Place the crumbs in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the garlic powder and onion powder.

Step 2: Shape and Fill the Balls

Take a small amount of chilled mac and cheese and shape it into a ball using your hands. Make an indentation in the center of the ball and press a cube of cheddar cheese into it. Reshape the ball to enclose the cheese completely. Repeat with the remaining mac and cheese and cheese cubes.

Step 3: Coat and Air Fry

Dip each mac and cheese ball in the egg wash, then roll it in the cornflake crumbs until fully coated. Arrange the coated balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the mac and cheese balls from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or ketchup.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the mac and cheese: Make sure your leftover mac and cheese is cold and firm before you start. This will prevent the cheese balls from falling apart during the shaping and coating process.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Leave some space between the mac and cheese balls or cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and crisping.
• Use cooking spray: Spritzing the mac and cheese balls with olive oil cooking spray will help them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
• Make ahead: You can shape and coat the mac and cheese balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying.

How to Serve

These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces:

• Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing for cheesy dishes.
• Ranch Dressing: Adds a creamy and tangy flavor.
• Ketchup: A kid-friendly favorite.
• Honey Mustard: Adds a sweet and tangy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare them ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover mac and cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade mac and cheese?
Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s chilled and firm before using.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack.

3. Can I bake the mac and cheese balls instead of air frying them?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the mac and cheese balls for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the egg wash?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe is a fun, easy, and delicious way to transform leftover mac and cheese into a crispy and cheesy snack or appetizer. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and kid-friendly appeal, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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