Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls
Crispy and creamy macaroni and cheese balls, prepared in an air fryer, offer a lower-fat alternative to their deep-fried counterparts.
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Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 F and the air fryer to 370 F.
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Spread breadcrumbs onto a baking sheet, then bake for 3 minutes; shake the sheet and bake for another 1 to 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
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Form the refrigerated macaroni and cheese into golf-ball sized portions.
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Prepare three separate dredging stations: In the first, whisk flour with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. In the second, whisk 2 eggs with milk. In the third, toss the toasted breadcrumbs with the remaining salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
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Roll each mac and cheese ball first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs, patting to adhere.
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Spray the air fryer basket and the coated mac and cheese balls with cooking spray. Place 6 to 9 balls in the air fryer and cook at 370 F for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
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Remove cooked balls from the air fryer and keep them warm in the preheated oven while air frying any remaining batches. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.