Description
Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are a delightful comfort food that’s perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 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
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for spraying
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions and drain.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour and cook to form a roux.
- Add the milk gradually while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and simmer until thickened.
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
- Cool the mixture for about 15-20 minutes.
- Form small balls from the cooled mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Coat each ball in egg, then in breadcrumb mixture.
- Spray with vegetable oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or herbs. Serve with marinara or garlic aioli.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: macaroni and cheese balls, air fryer recipes, comfort food, appetizers