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Air Fried Mac and Cheese Balls: A Crispy Delight

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the same nostalgic warmth as mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy goodness of this classic favourite is cherished by many, but what happens when you take it a step further? Enter air-fried mac and cheese balls—an inventive twist that combines the rich flavours of your childhood with a healthier cooking method. Perfect for a snack, party appetiser, or a unique side dish, these crunchy bites are sure to impress.

The Appeal of Air Frying

Air frying is a cooking technique that uses hot air circulation to achieve a crispy exterior while requiring significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This makes air-fried foods a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavour or texture. The result is a delightful crunch that envelops the cheesy, delicious centre of the mac and cheese balls.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare air-fried mac and cheese balls, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 200g macaroni pasta
  • 250g grated cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works best)
  • 200ml milk
  • 50g butter
  • 50g plain flour
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Breading:
  • 100g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs are ideal for extra crunch)
  • 2 eggs
  • 50g plain flour
  • A pinch of salt and pepper
  • Optional: Italian seasoning or paprika for added flavour

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a generous pot of salted water. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour, stirring continuously to create a roux. Cook for a minute or two until it turns a light golden colour, then gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Add the mustard powder, salt, and pepper, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Combine
Once the cheese sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure each piece of pasta is coated in the creamy goodness. Allow this mixture to cool completely; for quicker results, you can pop it in the fridge.

Step 4: Form the Balls
Once cooled, scoop out portions of the mac and cheese mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized balls. This is best done with slightly wet hands to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Prepare the Breading Station
In one bowl, place the plain flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs. For an extra burst of flavour, mix in some Italian seasoning or paprika.

Step 6: Coat the Balls
Roll each mac and cheese ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Ensure each ball is well-covered for optimal crunch.

Step 7: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the air fryer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Air-fried mac and cheese balls can be enjoyed on their own or paired with an array of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with a tangy marinara sauce, zesty ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha aioli. Their crispy exterior and gooey cheese centre make for an irresistible snack that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Conclusion

Air-fried mac and cheese balls are a delightful fusion of childhood nostalgia and modern cooking techniques. They’re simple to prepare and offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks without compromising on taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, these cheesy bites are bound to become a favourite in your household. So grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this delectable dish!

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