Description
Crispy, golden air fryer macaroni and cheese balls that combine creamy cheese with crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus additional for coating)
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil for spraying
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
- Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce and let it cool for about 15-20 minutes.
- Form small balls with the cooled mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish, beat the egg. In another dish, mix the bread crumbs and panko.
- Dip each macaroni ball in egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Arrange the breaded balls back on the baking sheet and spray lightly with vegetable oil.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the balls for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
Pair with marinara sauce, spicy ranch, or garlic aioli for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 balls
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, air fryer, appetizer, comfort food