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Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 89 reviews
  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a delicious and crispy twist on the classic comfort food. Made using leftover mac and cheese, each ball is stuffed with a gooey cheddar cheese center, coated in crunchy corn flakes, and air fried to golden perfection. This recipe is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party finger food that’s quick to prepare and healthier than traditional frying.

Ingredients

Mac and Cheese Balls

  • 14 Ounces mac and cheese (leftovers, chilled)
  • 5 Ounces cheddar cheese (cut into cubes)
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 Teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 Teaspoon onion powder

Breading

  • 9 Ounces corn flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F to ensure it’s ready for cooking the mac and cheese balls evenly and quickly.
  2. Process Corn Flakes: Process the corn flakes in a food processor until they reach a fine, breadcrumb-like texture suitable for coating. Transfer the processed flakes to a shallow dish and set aside.
  3. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will help the corn flakes stick to the mac and cheese balls.
  4. Shape the Balls: Take a small amount of chilled leftover mac and cheese and shape it into a ball using your hands. Press a cube of cheddar cheese into the center of each ball, then reshape the ball carefully to ensure the cheese is fully enclosed.
  5. Coat the Balls: Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg mixture, coating it completely. Then roll the ball in the processed corn flakes until fully covered for a crunchy exterior.
  6. Air Fry: Place the coated balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch to ensure even cooking. Cook for 12 minutes, turning the balls halfway through the cooking time for an even golden finish.
  7. Serve: Serve the crispy mac and cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • Use chilled leftover mac and cheese for easier shaping and better texture.
  • Make sure the cheese cubes are well enclosed inside the balls to prevent leakage during cooking.
  • For extra crispiness, you can double roll the balls by dipping again in egg and corn flakes before air frying.
  • Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and the size of the balls if necessary.
  • Serving suggestion: pair with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli dips.

Find it online: https://ivysrecipes.com/air-fryer-mac-and-cheese-balls-recipe/