If you love the comforting, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese but want to turn it into a fun, crispy snack, this Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe is exactly what you need. Crispy on the outside, melting cheese inside, and bursting with that classic mac and cheese flavor, these bites are a total crowd-pleaser. Using simple ingredients you might already have at home, this recipe transforms leftover mac and cheese into golden, crunchy balls that are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to capture the perfect flavor, texture, and crunch in your Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the creamy mac and cheese base to the crispy coating that gives every bite its irresistible crunch.
- 14 ounces leftover mac and cheese: Make sure it’s chilled so it holds its shape when forming balls.
- 9 ounces cornflakes: Crushed finely for that perfect golden, crispy exterior.
- 3 large eggs: Whisked with spices to help the coating stick and add flavor.
- 5 ounces cheddar cheese: Cubed to melt inside each ball for an extra gooey surprise.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory warmth without overpowering the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a subtle depth of flavor.
- Dipping sauce of your choice: Ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo go great here!
How to Make Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to create that perfectly crispy outside as soon as your balls go in. While the air fryer heats up, blitz your cornflakes in a food processor until finely ground. This gives you a crunchier coating that sticks beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Egg Wash
In a bowl, whisk together your eggs with the garlic powder and onion powder. This mixture not only helps the crushed cornflakes cling to your mac and cheese balls but also adds a subtle savory flavor that elevates the entire bite.
Step 3: Form the Mac and Cheese Balls
Take your chilled mac and cheese and start shaping it into small, evenly sized balls using your hands. Press a cube of cheddar cheese right into the center of each ball, then reshape the mac and cheese around it to fully enclose the cheese. The cheese cubes will melt inside while cooking for a delicious gooey center.
Step 4: Coat and Air Fry
Dip each mac and cheese ball first into the spiced egg wash, then roll it around in the crushed cornflakes until completely covered. Lay the balls in a single layer inside your air fryer basket, making sure they have space to crisp evenly. Cook for about 12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The result should be a golden brown, crunchy exterior with melty cheese inside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, these mac and cheese balls are best enjoyed hot, so grab your favorite dipping sauce and dive into warm, cheesy bites that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra pop of flavor and color, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over your mac and cheese balls. A light dusting of smoked paprika or grated Parmesan can add an exciting twist that elevates the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
These balls pair beautifully with a crisp green salad that cuts through the richness, or a zesty coleslaw that adds crunch and brightness. If you want to keep things indulgent, serve alongside some spicy marinara or creamy ranch for dipping, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe on a platter with mini skewers or toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also serve them in individual cups with dipping sauces on the side for a fun finger-food experience. Turning these into sliders by sandwiching them between soft buns with a dollop of sauce is another delicious and unexpected idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the mac and cheese balls fresh without compromising the flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked mac and cheese balls by placing them on a tray lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. This way, you can air fry them straight from frozen and enjoy fresh, crispy snacks any time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the leftover mac and cheese balls back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This method brings back their crispiness without drying out the cheesy center, unlike a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mac and cheese for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to chill it thoroughly first so the balls hold together well when forming. Fresh mac and cheese tends to be softer than leftovers, so chilling makes shaping easier.
What can I use if I don’t have cornflakes?
Crushed breadcrumbs or panko can be great substitutes for the coating. They will still provide a nice crunchy texture but may differ slightly in flavor.
Is it necessary to add cheese cubes inside?
The cheese cubes add a wonderfully gooey surprise in the center, but you can omit them if you prefer. The mac and cheese itself is already cheesy, so it’s optional.
Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
It’s possible by using plant-based mac and cheese and dairy-free cheese cubes, as well as substituting eggs with a flax egg or other vegan binder. Keep in mind texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Why use an air fryer instead of deep frying?
Air frying cuts down on oil and mess while still delivering that crispy outer crust you want. It’s a healthier, quicker alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe is a total game changer for enjoying your favorite comfort food in a new, playful way. Whether you are using leftovers or crafting it fresh, these cheesy bites are super easy to make, infinitely delicious, and always a hit. I encourage you to try this recipe next time you want a snack that feels special but is so simple to pull off. Happy cooking and enjoy every crispy, gooey bite!
Print
Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and gooey air fryer mac and cheese balls, made by coating cheesy mac and cheese with a crunchy cornflake crust and air frying to golden perfection. A delicious and easy appetizer or snack that’s perfect for using up leftover mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 ounces leftover mac and cheese, chilled
- 5 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
Coating
- 9 ounces cornflakes
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Serving
- Dipping sauce of your choice
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for cooking. Meanwhile, place the cornflakes into a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Transfer the crushed cornflakes to a shallow dish for coating.
- Make Egg Wash: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined. This will be used to help the cornflake coating stick to the mac and cheese balls.
- Form Balls: Take your chilled leftover mac and cheese and shape it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Press a small cube of cheddar cheese into the center of each ball, then reshape to completely enclose the cheese inside the mac and cheese.
- Coat and Air Fry: Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg mixture to wet the surface, then roll it in the crushed cornflakes to fully coat. Place the coated balls in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 12 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure an even golden brown and crispy crust.
- Serve: Carefully remove the mac and cheese balls from the air fryer and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy textures.
Notes
- Using chilled mac and cheese helps the balls hold together better during cooking.
- Pressing a cube of cheddar inside each ball adds a gooey cheesy center for extra indulgence.
- Make sure balls are coated evenly for consistent crispy texture.
- Flip halfway through air frying to promote even browning on all sides.
- Serve immediately for the best crispy and melty experience.
