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Mac & cheese bites in an air fryer with marinara sauce.

Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites

Turn that leftover mac and cheese into delicious Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites! Gooey mac and cheese bites are coated in a crispy panko coating for a truly satisfying snack. 
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Air Fryer, Appetizer, lunch, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 937
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups leftover mac and cheese refrigerated
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 cup panko
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese shredded
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Parchment Paper
  • Baking Tray

Method
 

  1. Using a ½ inch cookie scoop, scoop out spoonfuls of mac and cheese and roll each one into a ball. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and set them in the freezer for 30 minutes.
  2. Whisk together eggs and milk. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, stir together panko, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. 
  4. Place the panko crumb mixture next to the air fryer and the egg mixture next to the crumb mixture. Once the bites are frozen, place the tray of mac and cheese bites next to the egg mixture.
  5. Dip each mac and cheese ball in the egg mixture, roll it in the panko mixture, then place it in the air fryer.
  6. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until golden.

Notes

  • Using cold, leftover mac and cheese will give you the best result. It’ll be easier to roll and stay together in a ball. 
  • Chop up bacon and add it to the mac and cheese for a smoky twist. 
  • You don’t want to overcrowd the air fryer basket, so you may want to cook these mac and cheese bites in batches.