Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (710ml) whole milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 3 cups (approx. 300g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided (reserve 1 cup for later)
  • 1 cup (approx. 100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups (approx. 200g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)

Instructions:

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  3. Reduce heat to low. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Gradually add 2 cups of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
  5. Pour mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, until firm.
  6. Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, place flour. In the second, place beaten eggs. In the third, place panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  7. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, scoop out portions of chilled mac and cheese. Roll each portion into a ball about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
  8. Dip each ball into the flour, then the egg, then the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it's fully coated.
  9. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd.
  10. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and heated through. Serve hot Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls!
  11. Serve immediately and enjoy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese!