If you’re a fan of cheesy comfort food with a satisfying crunch, these Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are about to become your new obsession. Inspired by the beloved Cheesecake Factory appetizer, this recipe combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with a golden, crunchy coating that’s irresistible in every bite. Thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy that deep-fried texture with less oil, making these indulgent bites slightly lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party treat, these macaroni and cheese balls are crispy on the outside, creamy and gooey on the inside, and packed with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for maximum cheesy goodness. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare them step by step, including tips for shaping, breading, and air frying, ensuring every bite is perfectly golden and delicious.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 12–15 bite-sized macaroni and cheese balls, depending on the size you form.
For the Macaroni and Cheese:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Breading:
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil spray
Optional Enhancements:
- Pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
- Smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor
- Favorite dipping sauces: marinara, ranch, or honey mustard
Equipment Needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Shallow dishes for egg and breadcrumb coating
- Air fryer
- Spoon or ice cream scoop for forming balls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by cooking elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Slightly firmer macaroni works best, as it will hold its shape better when forming balls.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in 1 ¼ cups milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is fully coated. Let the mixture cool for 15–20 minutes. Cooling is crucial so that the balls hold their shape during forming.
Optional: Refrigerate for an hour for easier handling.
Step 4: Form the Macaroni Balls
- Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, scoop portions of the cooled macaroni mixture and roll them into ball shapes.
- Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
Step 5: Bread the Balls
- In a shallow dish, whisk the large egg until smooth.
- In another shallow dish, combine bread crumbs and panko. Add optional cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if desired.
- Roll each macaroni ball first in flour (optional for extra crisp), then in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.
Tip: For extra crispy results, lightly spray the balls with vegetable oil before air frying.
Step 6: Air Fry the Balls
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the macaroni balls in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove carefully and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tip: Spray halfway through cooking for an even crispier finish.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun weeknight appetizer.
Tips for Perfect Macaroni and Cheese Balls
- Cool the Mixture: Ensure the macaroni and cheese mixture is fully cooled before forming balls; this prevents them from falling apart.
- Firm Pasta: Slightly undercooked or firmer pasta holds its shape better when fried.
- Air Fryer Placement: Do not overcrowd the basket; spacing ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Flavor Boost: Add spices like cayenne, smoked paprika, or a pinch of nutmeg to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make Ahead: Form and bread the balls ahead of time and refrigerate. Air fry just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp salad to balance richness.
- Make a party platter with mini macaroni balls for appetizers or finger foods.
Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls – Crispy, Cheesy, Perfectly Golden!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are the ultimate comfort food appetizer. Packed with cheesy, buttery goodness and a golden crunchy coating, every bite is pure satisfaction.
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 spray
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Mix in cooked macaroni and let cool 15–20 minutes.
- Form mixture into small balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Dip balls in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Spray lightly with oil.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Cool slightly and serve with dipping sauce.
Notes
- Let mac and cheese cool fully so balls hold shape.
- Add cayenne or smoked paprika to crumbs for extra flavor.
- Spray again halfway through cooking for extra crispiness.
- Chill formed balls before cooking for easier handling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or deep-fry until golden brown.
2. Can I freeze the balls before cooking?
Yes. Form and bread the balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack all work well. Mix for a richer flavor.
4. How do I make them extra crispy?
Use panko in the breadcrumb mixture and lightly spray with oil before and halfway through air frying.
5. Can I add mix-ins like bacon or jalapeños?
Yes! Add finely chopped cooked bacon, jalapeños, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the macaroni mixture for extra flavor.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls capture the ultimate comfort food experience: creamy, cheesy, and indulgent on the inside with a perfectly crispy golden exterior. Easy to make at home, customizable with your favorite cheeses and spices, and quick thanks to the air fryer, they’re perfect for appetizers, snacks, or party treats.
One bite delivers that irresistible combination of cheesy gooeyness and crunchy satisfaction, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a family dinner, game night, or special occasion, these macaroni and cheese balls are a fun and delicious way to elevate a classic comfort food to restaurant-worthy perfection.
