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Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Ball Appetizers

These golden, crispy balls of cheesy mac and cheese goodness are like comfort food meets party snack, and they're absolutely irresistible! They're the perfect way to use up leftover mac and cheese (if that's even a thing in your house), or make a fresh batch just for these. Warning: you might want to make a double batch because they disappear FAST!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cold prepared mac and cheese homemade or boxed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, mix cold mac and cheese with shredded cheddar cheese. The mixture should be thick and hold together. If too wet, refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Freeze the mac and cheese balls for 15-20 minutes to firm up—this helps them hold their shape during cooking.
  4. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg (letting excess drip off), then coat generously with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Spray each ball liberally with cooking spray on all sides. Preheat air fryer to 390°F.
  7. Arrange balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket without touching. Cook in batches for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve warm with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or spicy mayo for dipping!