Description
These Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a crispy, cheesy snack made from leftover mac and cheese. Coated in a crunchy cornflake crust and stuffed with a gooey cheddar cheese center, they are perfectly golden and crispy thanks to the air fryer. This easy recipe is ideal for transforming leftovers into a delightful appetizer or party food.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Balls
- 14 ounces leftover mac and cheese, chilled
- 9 ounces cornflakes
- 3 large eggs
- 5 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Dipping Sauce
- Dipping sauce of your choice
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking the mac and cheese balls evenly.
- Prepare Cornflakes: Process the cornflakes in a food processor until they are finely ground. Transfer the crushed cornflakes into a shallow dish for easy breading.
- Make Egg Wash: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, garlic powder, and onion powder thoroughly to create a flavorful egg wash that will help the cornflake coating adhere to the mac and cheese balls.
- Form Balls: Take the chilled leftover mac and cheese and shape it into small balls. Press a small cube of cheddar cheese into the center of each ball and carefully reshape the mac and cheese around it, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
- Coat the Balls: Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg wash, then roll it in the crushed cornflakes, coating it completely for a crispy texture when cooked.
- Air Fry: Arrange the coated mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the mac and cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Make sure the mac and cheese is well chilled to help the balls hold their shape during cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the egg wash.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for cornflakes if desired but cornflakes provide extra crunch.
- These balls are best eaten fresh out of the air fryer for maximum crispiness.
- Leftover balls can be refrigerated and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispness.
