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–+ servings
Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls Delight

Delight in these Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls, a crispy twist on comfort food that's perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups Elbow macaroni or penne/rotini as substitutes
  • 4 tablespoons Butter or margarine for dairy-free
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour gluten-free option available
  • 2 cups Milk or plant-based milk for dairy-free
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder or finely chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper cayenne or hot sauce for heat
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese or mild cheddar
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano
  • 1 large Egg or flax/chia seed mix for vegan
For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup Bread crumbs or crushed crackers as substitute
  • 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs for extra crispiness
  • as needed Vegetable oil for spraying or olive oil spray

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • Shallow Dishes for Breading
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, drain and set aside.
  2. Melt the butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux.
  3. Gradually add milk, stirring for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
  6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and cool for 15-20 minutes.
  7. Shape the mixture into 1-2 inch balls and place on a tray.
  8. Prepare egg wash and breadcrumb mixtures in shallow dishes.
  9. Bread each ball by rolling in egg wash and then coating with breadcrumbs.
  10. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange balls in a single layer.
  11. Cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
  12. Allow to cool slightly before serving, pair with dips like marinara.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 8gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These macaroni and cheese balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

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