Prepare the Mac and Cheese Balls: – If your mac and cheese is not firm enough, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese to help bind it together. – Scoop out about 1 to 2 tablespoons of mac and cheese and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mac and cheese. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
– Set Up a Breading Station: In three separate bowls, prepare the breading ingredients:Bowl 1: Add flour. Bowl 2: Beat the eggs. Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Bread the Mac and Cheese Balls: – Remove the mac and cheese balls from the freezer. – Dredge each ball in the flour, shaking off any excess. – Dip the floured balls into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated. – Roll the balls in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Air Fry the Mac and Cheese Balls: – Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. – Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray. – Place the breaded mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch or overlap. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.