Description
These Cheesecake Factory-inspired Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making for a perfect appetizer or snack. Using an air fryer gives them a delightful crunch with less oil, capturing all the cheesy goodness in each bite.
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
Coating
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1–2 minutes.
- Add Milk and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in milk, then add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Thicken Sauce & Add Cheese: Let sauce thicken for about 3–4 minutes before stirring in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine Macaroni & Sauce: Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce; let cool for 15–20 minutes.
- Form Balls & Coat: Form cooled mixture into balls; coat each in beaten egg followed by a mixture of bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange balls in a single layer in the basket.
- Air Fry the Balls: Cook for 8–10 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the macaroni and cheese mixture is cooled well before forming balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- For extra crispiness, double coat the balls by dipping them again in egg and breadcrumbs before air frying.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be deep-fried at 350°F until golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a finer coating and panko for extra crunch.
- Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
