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Macaroni and cheese has long held a special place in culinary traditions across the globe, from the creamy Southern versions of the United States to the rich, baked variations found in Italian cuisine. The universal appeal of this dish is evident in its many interpretations, but the introduction of mac and cheese balls has sparked a culinary revolution. This innovative take has quickly gained popularity as a trendy appetizer, allowing food enthusiasts to enjoy the flavors of mac and cheese in a portable, snackable form.

Mini Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Balls

Indulge in a delicious twist on a classic favorite with Mini Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Balls! These bite-sized treats combine gooey, cheesy goodness with a crispy exterior—all made healthier in an air fryer. Perfect for game nights, parties, or a cozy snack at home, they cater to various dietary preferences. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, enjoy the nostalgia of macaroni and cheese in a fun, portable form that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked macaroni (equivalent to about 1 cup uncooked)

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for a delightful crunch)

¼ cup sour cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking spray

Instructions
 

Prepare the Mac & Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and seasonings including garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, as well as salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the macaroni is well-coated with the cheesy mixture.

    Add the Egg: Crack the egg into the mac and cheese mixture. Stir vigorously until the egg is evenly integrated, which will help bind all the ingredients together.

      Chill the Mixture: To enhance the consistency, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling will firm up the mixture, making it easier to form into balls.

        Form the Balls: After chilling, take a tablespoon of the mac and cheese mixture and roll it into a ball. Ensure they are compact so they maintain their shape. Continue this process until all the mixture is formed into approximately 12-15 balls.

          Coat the Balls: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each mac and cheese ball in the breadcrumbs until they are completely coated. For an extra crunch, consider double dipping by rolling each ball first in a beaten egg before coating it with breadcrumbs.

            Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the cooking has even heat distribution.

              Spray & Cook: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are spaced out and not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray to promote crispiness.

                Air Fry: Cook the mac and cheese balls for roughly 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should turn a beautiful golden brown and be crispy on the outside.

                  Serve: Once cooked, remove the balls from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a minute or two. Serve warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara or ranch dressing.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 40 minutes | 20 minutes | 12-15 servings

                      Presentation Tips: For an appealing display, arrange the mac and cheese balls on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.