Description
These bite-sized mac and cheese rounds are golden-crisp on the outside, ooey-gooey on the inside, and perfect for snacking, parties, or meal prep. Made in the air fryer for easy prep and minimal mess.
Ingredients
2–3 cups chilled mac and cheese (homemade or leftover)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or blend)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
Salt and pepper to taste (optional seasoning: garlic powder, paprika, cayenne)
Cooking spray or light oil for air frying
Instructions
Shape chilled mac and cheese into 1½‑Tbsp balls.
Chill in fridge for 30 minutes (or freeze ten minutes) to firm up.
Set up breading station: flour → egg → seasoned panko for each bite.
Preheat air fryer to 375 °F (190 °C). Lightly spray basket and bites.
Air fry in a single layer for 8–10 mins, shaking halfway, until golden.
Let them rest a few minutes before serving—hot inside, crispy outside.
Notes
Best when chilled before shaping to prevent falling apart.
Customize with different cheeses, spice in the panko, or add mix-ins like bacon.
Can be baked (400 °F for ~15–18 mins, flipping halfway) if you don’t have an air fryer.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer, Breaded Bites
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: mac and cheese bites, air fryer snacks, cheesy bites, party appetizers