Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites in Air fryer

Air fryer Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese Bites are a favourite of my son in college. He has an air fryer and he loves how good these frozen air fryer Mac and Cheese Bites taste.

Whether you are a college student, a young professional or a busy mom like me, frozen treats are what we all keep for occasional indulgence.

You can check out these frozen air fryer foods that your family will relish.

Be aware that some of them may not be very healthy. Hence, it is best to check their ingredients and nutrition labels before you purchase them.

This recipe is for Trader Joe’s frozen Mac and cheese bites but really works for any brand of Mac and cheese that you can find in the frozen section of your grocery store.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

1. Quick snack: These Mac and cheese bites go from frozen to crispy cheesy goodness in no time.

Perfect quick snack when hunger strikes.

2. Crispy: Air fryer gives it a lovely golden crunch. Even and perfect cooking.

3. Slightly better than deep fried: Air fryer reduces the extra calories from deep frying and of course avoids all the mess.

But, it is cheesy and has added oil so it is still not healthy. But a treat, hell yeah!

Ingredients

Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites pack: Just pick a package from your grocery store. 

Any other brand works just as well.

Cooking Spray: Use it to prevent them from sticking to air fryer basket. I don’t need to.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Add ons: These cheese bites are good as it is, but feel free to add herbs or extra cheese if you so like.

2. Dips: Serve with a nice spicy dip like this gochujang aioli or even a green chutney for a delicious flavour twist.

3. From scratch: If you want to make them at home. Make Mac and cheese, then bread them and form balls, freeze them, and then follow the air fryer instructions shared.

Serving Suggestions

1. Veggie Sticks: Balance out the cheesy goodness with some crisp celery or carrot sticks on the side.

2. Salad: A fresh garden salad complements these crunchy balls well.

3. Drinks: Pair with a cold lemonade, soda, or even a chilled beer for a tasty snack.

Instructions

Cut the pack and take out as many frozen Mac and cheese bites as you are planning to consume.

No need to thaw them.

Seal and place the remaining back in the freezer.

Air Fryer Method

Arrange the Mac and Cheese Bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. 

Ensure they don’t touch so as to cook evenly.

Spray some cooking spray in air fryer basket to prevent these bites from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Air fry for 10 minutes at 400F or 200C till they are golden brown and crispy.

You can flip them midway.

Take out these crunchy Mac and cheese bites and serve them hot. Check the serving suggestions for serving ideas.

Oven Method (if you don’t have air fryer):

Preheat your oven to 425F or 220C.

Place the frozen Mac and Cheese Bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until they’re golden brown and sizzling.

They will be super hot so carefully remove them. Serve them hot.

How to Cook Mac and Cheese Bites in Microwave

I would suggest not to try this method. They get soggy and terrible if cooked in the air fryer.

Expert Tips

1. Avoid Too Many: Always keep enough space between the bites to allow good circulation of hot air for even cooking.

2. Flip the bites: You can flip the bites for even browning midway during air frying.

3. Do not Thaw: Remember to place them straight from freezer into air fryer for optimum crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I store leftover Mac and Cheese Bites?

Yes, you can store leftover mac and cheese bites in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat and consume.

2. How to reheat air fryer mac and cheese bites?

Take them out from air tight container in the fridge. Air fry at 380F or 160C for 3-4 minutes till heated through. Serve hot.

3. I don't have Trader Joe's near me. Can I use another brand?

Yes, you can use any brand that you can find. Just keep an eye on the air frying time which may vary slightly.
Here's the recipe card:

📖 Recipe Card