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Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites

Cold, thick mac and cheese bound with egg and extra cheese, rolled in seasoned panko, chilled, and air fried into crisp golden bites.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cold mac and cheese very thick
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 cup panko
  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • salt and pepper
  • oil spray

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sheet pan

Method
 

  1. Stir the egg, cheddar, and Parmesan into the cold mac and season with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Scoop tablespoons and roll into balls, or press into mini muffin tins to portion.
  3. Combine the panko and seasoned breadcrumbs. Roll each ball to coat, pressing gently.
  4. Chill the breaded bites 20 to 30 minutes. Air fry at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden.

Notes

The mac must be cold and thick — loose mac won't hold a ball.
The chill after breading keeps them from falling apart.
Freeze-ahead: freeze breaded, then air fry from frozen, adding 2 to 3 minutes.