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Mac and cheese is a dish that transcends generations, bringing warmth and comfort to dinner tables across the globe. The Crunchy Delight Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls take this beloved classic to a new level, combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with a crispy exterior achieved with the air fryer. This innovative recipe captures the essence of comfort food while offering a healthier cooking method that is quickly gaining traction in home kitchens.

Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls

Discover the Crunchy Delight Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls, a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe combines creamy macaroni and cheese with a crispy, golden exterior thanks to the air fryer, offering a healthier way to enjoy a beloved dish. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or game day, these bite-sized treats can easily be customized with your favorite cheeses and veggies. Explore the joy of creating a nostalgic favorite that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked macaroni pasta

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sour cream

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray

Instructions
 

Prepare the Mac and Cheese Mixture:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, cream cheese, and sour cream. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is creamy.

      Chill the Mixture:

        Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mac and cheese mixture for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will help it to firm up, making it easier to shape.

          Form the Balls:

            Once chilled, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is formed into balls (approximately 12-15, depending on size).

              Coat the Mac and Cheese Balls:

                Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. First, roll each mac and cheese ball in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.

                  Preheat the Air Fryer:

                    Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.

                      Air Fry the Balls:

                        Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Spray the tops of the balls with more cooking spray to help them crisp up.

                          Cook:

                            Air fry the mac and cheese balls for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through and shake the basket to ensure even cooking.

                              Serve:

                                Remove the mac and cheese balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce (like marinara or ranch) and enjoy!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr 15 min | 12-15 balls