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Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls make a perfect snack or appetizer from leftover mac and cheese.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese Ensure it is fully cooled before using.
Breading Ingredients
  • 1 cup bread crumbs Use your preferred type of bread crumbs.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs eggs, beaten
  • to taste Salt Sea salt or table salt.
  • to taste Pepper Freshly ground pepper is recommended.
For Cooking
  • as needed Cooking spray or olive oil For oiling the air fryer basket.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cool the mac and cheese completely.
  2. Scoop small portions and roll them into compact balls.
Breading Setup
  1. Put the flour in one bowl, beat the eggs in a second, and put the bread crumbs in a third. Season with salt and pepper.
Breading the Balls
  1. Roll a mac and cheese ball in flour first, dip it in beaten egg, then coat it in bread crumbs.
Air Frying
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer with some space between them.
  3. Spray lightly with cooking spray or coat with olive oil.
  4. Air fry until golden and crisp, approximately 8–10 minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Ensure the macaroni and cheese is fully cooled before shaping into balls for better structure. Use cooking spray or olive oil lightly for a crispy coating. Best enjoyed fresh.