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Easy air fryer mac and cheese bites with a crispy panko coating and creamy cheese filling served with marinara sauce.

Easy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites

These easy air fryer mac and cheese bites are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and perfect for snacks, appetizers, or kid-friendly meals. Ready in under 20 minutes!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Servings: 20 bites
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups prepared macaroni and cheese (well chilled)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • cooking spray
Optional Dipping Sauces
  • ranch dressing
  • marinara sauce
  • honey mustard
  • buffalo ranch

Method
 

  1. Chill the prepared macaroni and cheese for at least 2 hours or overnight until firm.
  2. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of macaroni and cheese and roll into balls.
  3. Beat the eggs in one bowl.
  4. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
  5. Dip each mac and cheese ball into the egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
  6. Place the bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  7. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
  8. Air fry at 375°F for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Chilling the macaroni and cheese is the secret to helping the bites hold their shape.
  • Don't overcrowd the basket.
  • Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
 

Suggested Pairings

 
  • Fresh fruit
  • Carrot sticks
  • Side salad
  • Tomato soup
  • Chicken tenders
  • Buffalo wings