Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
why make this recipe
Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are a fun and delicious twist on a classic dish. They are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Cooking them in an air fryer makes them healthier than traditional frying, allowing you to enjoy all the cheesy goodness with less oil. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy movie night.
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, 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 garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture and continue to whisk until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to 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 the heat and add the cooked elbow macaroni, stirring to coat evenly.
- Let the mixture cool for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooled, scoop small portions and form them into balls with your hands.
- Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the egg until fully beaten.
- In another shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs.
- Roll each macaroni ball first in the egg, then in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Place the breaded balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray each ball lightly with vegetable oil to help them crisp up while cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the breaded macaroni balls in a single layer in the air fryer, making sure they do not touch.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove from the air fryer and let 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 delicious fried balls are best served hot and fresh. They make a great appetizer or party snack. Pair them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty treat.
how to store Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
To store leftovers, place the cooled macaroni and cheese balls in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) to regain that crispy texture.
tips to make Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
- Make sure the macaroni and cheese mixture is cooled properly before forming balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use a combination of regular and panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
variation
You can customize these balls by adding cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or chopped vegetables to the macaroni and cheese mixture for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I freeze the macaroni and cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze them after breading. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for freezing, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry from frozen when ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free elbow macaroni to make this recipe gluten-free. Make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs as well.
How can I make these balls spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture to give the balls a spicy kick!
Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, 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 garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture and continue to whisk until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to 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 the heat and add the cooked elbow macaroni, stirring to coat evenly.
- Let the mixture cool for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooled, scoop small portions and form them into balls with your hands.
- Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the egg until fully beaten.
- In another shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs.
- Roll each macaroni ball first in the egg, then in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Place the breaded balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray each ball lightly with vegetable oil to help them crisp up while cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the breaded macaroni balls in a single layer in the air fryer, making sure they do not touch.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.