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Golden-brown crispy air fryer mac and cheese balls on a white plate with a small dipping sauce, crumb coating visible, parsley garnish, bright kitchen background.

Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls Copycat Recipe

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Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls are a playful twist on classic mac and cheese. Creamy cheddar and parmesan center surrounded by a crunchy breadcrumb crust, fried to a golden finish in minutes. This copycat snack is perfect for weeknight dinners, lunchboxes, or party bites, delivering comforting cheese flavor with minimal mess.

  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked macaroni, cooled
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper
  • Cooking spray
  • Optional dipping sauce: marinara

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine macaroni, cheddar, cream cheese, parmesan, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until a cohesive mixture forms.
  2. Chill the mixture 15-20 minutes to make shaping easier.
  3. Scoop portions and roll into balls about the size of a walnut.
  4. Roll balls in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400F. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  6. Arrange balls in a single layer; spray tops with a little oil.
  7. Air fry 8-10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
  8. Serve with marinara or dipping sauce and enjoy.

Notes

  • For extra cheesiness, fold in 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella.
  • If the dough is too sticky, chill longer or add a little more breadcrumbs.
  • To bake instead of air fry, bake at 425F for 12-15 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball (40 g)
  • Calories: 250 Kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
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