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Homemade Bacon Mac and Cheese Bites | Air Fryer Recipe

Few comfort foods rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese, especially when it’s taken to the next level with crispy bacon and a delightful crunch. If you’re on the lookout for a delicious yet simple snack or appetiser, look no further than homemade bacon mac and cheese bites. This air fryer recipe allows you to indulge in these bites with less guilt, as it uses a fraction of the oil compared to traditional frying methods. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering recipe that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a cosy night in!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 200g macaroni pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons plain flour
• 450ml milk
• 200g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 100g mozzarella cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 100g cooked bacon, chopped (you can use more for an extra crunch!)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

For the Breading:

• 100g breadcrumbs
• 50g grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for a touch of flavour and colour)
• 1 egg, beaten

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Baking tray or plate
• Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over a medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

4. Combine: Stir the cooked macaroni and chopped bacon into the cheese sauce until well combined. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, making it easier to form into bites.

Step 2: Form the Bites

1. Shape the Mixture: Once the mac and cheese mixture is cool enough to handle, take a tablespoon-sized amount and form it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Place them on a baking tray or plate lined with parchment paper.

2. Chill the Bites: Refrigerate the mac and cheese balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up. This step is crucial for keeping their shape during cooking.

Step 3: Bread the Bites

1. Prepare the Breading Station: In one bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and paprika. In another bowl, beat the egg.

2. Coat the Bites: Take each chilled mac and cheese ball, dip it into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Repeat until all bites are breaded.

Step 4: Air Fry

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your bites cook evenly and get that perfect crunch.

2. Cook the Bites: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the mac and cheese bites in a single layer, leaving space between each one for air circulation. You may need to do this in batches. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove the bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These delicious bacon mac and cheese bites can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favourite dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy ketchup.

Conclusion

These homemade bacon mac and cheese bites are not only a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved dish but also a fun finger food that will impress your friends and family. Whether for a gathering or a quiet evening at home, this air fryer recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and convenience. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to these delightful little morsels. Happy cooking!