Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites

Ingredients

• 200 g cooked elbow macaroni, cooled
• 150 g shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp butter (optional)
• 1 tbsp flour
• 80 ml milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 120 g panko breadcrumbs
• salt, cooking oil spray
• Ketchup, to serve (optional)

Steps

1. Melt the butter in a small pan, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then whisk in the milk and simmer until thickened.
2. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheddar until melted and smooth. Fold through the cooked macaroni and season with salt.
3. Spread the cheesy macaroni on a tray and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour, until firm enough to shape.
4. Scoop and roll the chilled mixture into 16 compact balls.
5. Dip each ball in beaten egg, then roll firmly in panko to coat completely.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 190°C for 3 minutes.
7. Arrange the bites in a single layer, spray with oil, and air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway, until deeply golden.
8. Rest for 2 minutes before serving - the cheese center is very hot.

Tip: Chilling the mac and cheese thoroughly before shaping is the step people skip and regret - a warm or loose mixture won't hold a ball shape and falls apart in the breading, while a firm, cold base rolls cleanly and keeps the cheese contained in the air fryer.

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Nutrition (per serving)

Estimated from standard ingredient data — actual values vary by brand and exact quantities used.

Serving & Storage