Description
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these air fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are perfect for any occasion.
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 package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Pour in the milk slowly while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, whisking until smooth.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in the macaroni until coated.
- Let cool for 15-20 minutes, then form into balls.
- Beat the egg in a shallow dish.
- Combine bread crumbs and panko in another dish.
- Roll balls in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the balls in the air fryer in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with marinara or ranch for dipping. Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, comfort food, air fryer appetizers, fried snacks