Description
Handheld comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing; enjoy crispy mac and cheese balls made in the air fryer.
Ingredients
For the macaroni and cheese
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (Cook according to package instructions.)
- 2 tablespoons butter (For making the roux.)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (For thickening the cheese sauce.)
- 1 1/4 cups milk (Add slowly to avoid lumps.)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (For flavor.)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (For flavor.)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (To taste.)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (To taste.)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (For the cheese sauce.)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (For the cheese sauce.)
- 1 large egg (For binding the breadcrumbs.)
For breading and frying
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (For coating the macaroni balls.)
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (For extra crunch.)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (For dusting the balls.)
- Vegetable oil for spraying (To help them crisp up in the air fryer.)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, making a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture and continue to whisk until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the macaroni.
Forming and Breading the Balls
- Let the mixture cool for about 15-20 minutes.
- Scoop small portions, roll into balls, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the egg.
- In another dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko.
- Roll each ball in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Return the breaded balls to the baking sheet.
- Spray each ball lightly with vegetable oil.
Cooking the Balls
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serve with warmed marinara or ranch. For a lighter option, try yogurt mixed with lemon and garlic powder. Kids can help shape and bread the balls for added fun.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
- Cuisine: American