Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls.

1. Step 1

   Start by bringing a large pot of water to a vigorous boil over high heat.

2. Step 2

   Once the water is bubbling, add the macaroni from your dinner package.

3. Step 3

   Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a tender perfection, which should take about 7 to 8 minutes.

4. Step 4

   After cooking, drain the pasta but don’t rinse it; simply return it to the pot.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to create that creamy goodness! Stir in the cheese sauce from the package, along with some milk and margarine, mixing everything together until it’s well combined.

6. Step 6

   Next, fold in the shredded Cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the mixture.

7. Step 7

   Once everything is mixed to cheesy perfection, transfer the macaroni and cheese into a bowl and pop it in the refrigerator.

8. Step 8

   Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait, until it firms up nicely.

9. Step 9

   When you’re ready to continue, scoop out the chilled macaroni and cheese and roll it into 1 1/2-inch balls.

10. Step 10

    Place these delightful bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour.

11. Step 11

    While the balls are freezing, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

12. Step 12

    Don’t forget to lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to ensure a perfect crisp.

13. Step 13

    In one bowl, beat some eggs, and in another shallow bowl, mix together panko bread crumbs, seasoned bread crumbs, salt, and garlic powder for that extra flavor.

14. Step 14

    Now comes the fun part! Take each frozen macaroni and cheese ball, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s evenly coated.

15. Step 15

    Arrange the coated balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between them.

16. Step 16

    You might need to cook them in batches, but that’s okay! Air fry the balls for about 6 to 8 minutes, then carefully flip them over and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.

17. Step 17

    Enjoy your deliciously cheesy air-fried bites!.