Print

Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 52 reviews

Deliciously crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls bring a fun twist to the classic comfort food. Made with a rich cheese sauce, perfectly cooked macaroni, and coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, they are air fried to golden perfection for a healthier take on fried favorites.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Cheese

  • 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

Breading and Coating

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil for spraying

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
  3. Prepare Cheese Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until smooth.
  4. Simmer and Thicken: Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce: Remove saucepan from heat and add the cooked macaroni, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly with cheese sauce.
  7. Cool the Mixture: Allow the macaroni and cheese mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes, which will make it easier to shape into balls.
  8. Form Balls: Scoop small portions of the cooled mixture and shape them into balls with your hands. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
  9. Prepare Coating Stations: Whisk the egg in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, combine bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs. Place the 1/4 cup flour in a separate dish.
  10. Coat the Balls: Roll each macaroni ball first in the flour, then dip into the beaten egg, followed by coating well in the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each ball is fully covered.
  11. Prepare for Air Frying: Place the breaded balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray each ball with vegetable oil to promote crisping.
  12. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
  13. Air Fry: Arrange the balls in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  14. Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
  • For extra flavor, try adding chopped cooked bacon or herbs like parsley to the cheese mixture before shaping.
  • If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning once midway.
  • Be sure to spray the balls with vegetable oil or brush lightly before air frying to achieve a crispy texture.
  • Serve with ranch, marinara, or spicy dipping sauces for a tasty accompaniment.

Keywords: fried macaroni and cheese balls, air fryer appetizer, cheesy bites, finger foods, party snack, comfort food

Find it online: https://yumwithmia.com/cheesecake-factory-air-fryer-fried-macaroni-and-cheese-balls-recipe/