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–+ servings
image of Realistic top down mise en place shot of ingredients Leftover macaroni and cheese balls eggs panko breadcrumbs milk shredded cheddar chives and chopped bacon arranged on a white marble kitchen counter with healthy clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
katya bou

Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Transform leftover mac and cheese into crispy, golden bites of comfort with this easy air fryer recipe. Perfectly gooey inside and crunchy outside, these balls are ideal for appetizers or snacks without the deep-fry mess.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Balls
  • 2 cups Leftover Macaroni and Cheese cold and firm, refrigerated for at least 6 hours
For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour for dredging
  • 2 Large Eggs lightly beaten with a splash of milk
  • 1 tbsp Milk for egg wash
  • 1.5 cups Panko Breadcrumbs fine for crispiness
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika smoked preferred
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese optional, for extra flavor
  • Cooking Spray neutral high-heat spray like avocado oil

Equipment

  • Air Fryer,
  • - Mixing bowls
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet
  • Small Scoop or Spoon

Method
 

Prepare the Mac Balls
  1. Ensure your leftover macaroni and cheese is cold and firm. Using a small scoop or large spoon (about 1.5 tablespoons each), shape the mac into compact balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  2. In three shallow bowls, prepare: Bowl 1 - All-purpose flour. Bowl 2 - Beaten eggs with splash of milk. Bowl 3 - Panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan.
  3. Remove mac balls from freezer. Dredge each in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg wash, then roll in seasoned panko, pressing firmly to adhere. Return coated balls to freeze for 10 more minutes if needed.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place balls in basket in a single layer (do not touch). Lightly spray with cooking oil. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying the other side, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Remove from air fryer and serve immediately with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 6gFat: 7g

Notes

For best results, use cold leftover mac and cheese. Freeze breaded balls for up to 3 months and cook from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes. Reheat cooked balls in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to maintain crispiness. Variations: Add chopped bacon or jalapeños to the mac before shaping.
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