Description
Delightful air-fried bites of macaroni and cheese, encased in a crispy coating, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes.
- Shape the balls: Once chilled, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Prepare for frying: In a shallow dish, beat the egg. Dip each macaroni ball into the egg, ensuring it is evenly coated, then roll it in breadcrumbs to coat.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Air fry: Arrange the balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Once done, serve the mac and cheese balls warm along with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Try using a mix of different cheeses for unique flavors. They can also be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: mac and cheese balls, air fryer, snack recipe, vegetarian appetizer, comfort food