Description
A golden, crunchy snack with a creamy, cheesy center made easily in the air fryer.
Ingredients
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Cooked macaroni pasta – 3 cups (about 225 g dry)
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Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – 1½ cups (170 g)
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Mozzarella cheese, shredded – 1 cup (115 g)
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Cream cheese, softened – 4 oz (115 g)
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Whole milk – ½ cup (120 ml)
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Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons (28 g)
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All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons (16 g)
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Salt – ¾ teaspoon
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Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
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Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
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Paprika – ½ teaspoon
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All-purpose flour (for breading) – ¾ cup (95 g)
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Eggs – 2 large
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Breadcrumbs – 1½ cups (75 g)
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Olive oil spray – as needed
Instructions
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Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then add milk and cook until slightly thickened.
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Stir in cheeses and seasonings until smooth.
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Mix in cooked macaroni and let cool completely.
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Shape into balls and chill for 30 minutes.
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Bread with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
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Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.
Notes
For best results, allow the mac and cheese mixture to cool fully before shaping. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes