Description
Crispy, golden air fryer mac and cheese balls inspired by the Cheesecake Factory. Easy to make with leftover mac and cheese!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cooked macaroni and cheese (chilled)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- 1. Chill the mac and cheese for at least 2 hours.
- 2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Form the chilled mac and cheese into 1-inch balls.
- 4. Dredge each ball in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- 5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray.
- 6. Place the breaded mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- 7. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- 8. Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, air fryer, appetizer, fried, cheese