Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

why make this recipe

This snack is simple, quick, and very tasty. The air fryer gives a crispy outside and soft cheesy inside without deep frying. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home.

introduction

These Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls make a great snack or party bite. They are cheesy, crunchy, and cook fast in the air fryer. If you like other fried snacks, you might also enjoy this air fryer fried pickles recipe for a fun side.

how to make Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Make the cheesy mix, form balls, coat them well, and air fry until golden. Work with cooled cooked pasta so the balls hold their shape. Use a light spray of cooking oil so they crisp evenly. For a different flavor, see the variation below.

Ingredients :

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Directions :

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small balls.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and set aside.
4. Roll each macaroni ball in breadcrumbs, then dip into the beaten egg, and coat again in breadcrumbs.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Spray the basket with cooking spray.
7. Place the balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each ball.
8. Spray the tops with cooking spray.
9. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

how to serve Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Serve them hot so the cheese is gooey. Offer dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard. They work well as an appetizer, snack, or a side for burgers.

how to store Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Cool them to room temperature first. Put in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 4-6 minutes until warm and crispy.

tips to make Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

• Chill the mixture for 30 minutes if it is soft before forming balls.
• Use firm cooked macaroni, not mushy pasta.
• Spray lightly with oil for a crispy crust.
• Do not crowd the air fryer basket; leave space for air to circulate.

variation (if any)

• Add cooked bacon bits or chopped herbs to the mix.
• Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a change.
• For a spicy kick, mix in a small amount of hot sauce or jalapeño.
• Try a different ball recipe like kimchi and cheese rice balls for another tasty idea.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I freeze these macaroni balls?
A: Yes. Freeze them on a tray first, then move to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Q: Do I need to use two coats of breadcrumbs?
A: Two coats give a better, thicker crust. You can skip the first or second coat, but they may be less crispy.

Q: Can I bake them instead of air frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased sheet for 12-15 minutes, turning once, until golden.

Q: How many servings does this make?
A: It depends on ball size, but this recipe makes about 12 small bites.

Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar alternatives. Keep the coating the same.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are an easy, tasty snack you can make at home. For another take on air-fried mac and cheese bites, see this recipe for Air Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls – My Forking Life. If you want a crispy bite version, you can also read about Crispy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites (Air Fryer) – Adore Foods.

Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

These cheesy, crunchy bites are quick to make in the air fryer, offering a delicious snack or party food option.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 cups cooked macaroni Use firm cooked macaroni, not mushy pasta.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use for coating.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray For air frying.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small balls.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and set aside.
4. Roll each macaroni ball in breadcrumbs, then dip into the beaten egg, and coat again in breadcrumbs.

Cooking

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spray the basket with cooking spray.
3. Place the balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each ball.
4. Spray the tops with cooking spray.
5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Serving

1. Serve them hot so the cheese is gooey. Offer dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard.

Notes

Chill the mixture for 30 minutes if it is soft before forming balls. Do not crowd the air fryer basket; leave space for air to circulate.