why make this recipe
Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are a fun twist on a classic comfort food. They make the perfect snack or appetizer for gatherings and are a hit with both kids and adults. The air fryer makes them crispy without needing too much oil, making them a slightly healthier option than traditional frying. Plus, they are easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat!
how to make Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
Ingredients :
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for spraying
Directions :
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in the 1 1/4 cups of milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture and continue whisking until smooth.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cooked elbow macaroni, stirring to coat.
- Let the mixture cool for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooled, scoop small portions of the macaroni and cheese mixture and form them into balls.
- Place the macaroni balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the large egg until beaten.
- In another shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs.
- Roll each macaroni and cheese ball first in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet and spray each lightly with vegetable oil.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove the balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
how to serve Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
These tasty bites can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. Pair them with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch dressing, or cheesy sauce for an even more delightful experience. They are perfect for parties, game days, or simply as a fun treat at home.
how to store Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
To store leftovers, let the macaroni and cheese balls cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through and crispy.
tips to make Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
- Ensure the macaroni and cheese mixture is cool enough to handle before forming the balls; this makes it easier to shape them.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with different cheeses or add cooked bacon or vegetables for a twist.
variation (if any)
For those looking for a different flavor, try adding spices like cayenne pepper for a kick or mixing in cooked spinach for extra nutrition. You can also swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these balls instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Q: Can I freeze the macaroni and cheese balls?
A: Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with these balls?
A: Popular options include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for a flavor kick!
Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Macaroni Mixture
- 1 cup elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions
- 2 tablespoons butter For the roux
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For the roux and rolling
- 1 1/4 cups milk Whole milk is preferred for creaminess
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Or a blend of cheeses
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg For binding
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs For coating
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs For extra crunch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour For rolling
- Vegetable oil for spraying For air frying
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in the 1 1/4 cups of milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture and continue whisking until smooth.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cooked elbow macaroni, stirring to coat.
- Let the mixture cool for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooled, scoop small portions of the macaroni and cheese mixture and form them into balls.
- Place the macaroni balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the large egg until beaten.
- In another shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs.
- Roll each macaroni and cheese ball first in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet and spray each lightly with vegetable oil.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove the balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
