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Air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls on a plate with a dipping sauce

Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Enjoy a crunchy, cheesy snack with air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls featuring a creamy mozzarella and Parmesan center wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 balls
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese Base
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni Standard elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter For making the roux
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For the roux
  • 1 1/4 cups milk Whole or 2% milk recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For the creamy center
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For flavor
  • 1 large egg For binding the breading
Breading
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs For coating
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs For crunch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour For initial dusting
  • Vegetable oil for spraying To achieve a golden crust

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain well.
Making the Roux
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Whisk in the 2 tablespoons flour and keep whisking for 1–2 minutes until smooth and lightly toasted.
Creating the Cheese Sauce
  1. Gradually whisk in milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, simmering for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
Combining it All
  1. Remove from heat and mix in the cooked macaroni until well coated.
  2. Allow to cool for 15–20 minutes until set.
Forming the Balls
  1. Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Breading the Balls
  1. Set up a breading station with beaten egg in one dish and a mix of bread crumbs and panko in another.
  2. Dust each ball with flour, dip in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Air Frying
  1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange balls in a single layer in the basket.
  2. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
  3. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer and ensure the panko and bread crumbs are well mixed for optimal crunch.