Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as nostalgic and satisfying as mac and cheese, especially when it’s transformed into bite-sized delights. Imagine taking the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese and giving it a crispy, golden crust—all thanks to the magic of your air fryer. That’s exactly what awaits you with these Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls. This recipe combines the rich flavors of melted cheeses with the crunch of breadcrumbs, making it a perfect treat for parties, game days, or a cozy night in.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This dish stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, using easily accessible ingredients that won’t break the bank. Perfect for a weeknight treat or an impressive appetizer, these mac and cheese balls are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.

"These mac and cheese balls are like a hug in a bite! They have the perfect combination of crunchy and creamy. My kids devoured them!"

Top Reasons to Try This Dish

1. Kid-Approved: Kids can’t resist mac and cheese, and the added crunch makes it even more appealing.
2. Versatile Snack: Great for casual gatherings or as a fun side dish at your holiday dinner.
3. Quick Cooking: The air fryer cuts down cooking time, getting delicious results in just a matter of minutes.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Before diving into the culinary excitement, here’s what you can expect. This dish involves a straightforward process of cooking elbow macaroni, making a creamy cheese sauce, forming the balls, and then air frying them to crispy perfection. It’s an excellent way to impress your family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen!

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up these tasty treats, here’s what you need:

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus additional for coating)
• 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
• Vegetable oil for spraying

Feel free to swap out cheeses based on your preference or dietary needs; cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free alternative can all work beautifully here.

New Ebook

🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts

A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:

• ✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
• 🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
• 🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
• 🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
• 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups

👉 Get the Ebook

Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad

Cooking Steps

1. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
6. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce and let it cool for about 15-20 minutes.
7. Once cooled, form small balls with the mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. In a shallow dish, beat the egg. In another dish, mix the bread crumbs and panko.
9. Dip each macaroni ball in egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.
10. Arrange the breaded balls back on the baking sheet and spray lightly with vegetable oil.
11. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the balls for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.
12. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips for Serving

These mac and cheese balls shine on their own, but why stop there? Pair them with a tangy marinara sauce, spicy ranch, or even a zesty garlic aioli for an additional flavor kick. They also pair nicely with a side salad or crispy vegetables, making for a complete meal.

Best Way to Store Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. These balls can also be frozen! Just freeze them before frying, and when you’re ready to enjoy them, cook from frozen at the same temperature, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Pro Chef Tips

• Cooling is Key: Allowing the macaroni mixture to cool down will help the balls hold together better when cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary. Each ball needs space to crisp up properly.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add different herbs or spices to the cheese sauce for unique flavor profiles. Consider mixing in bacon bits, jalapeños, or even different cheeses for a delightful twist.

Different Ways to Make It

For those looking to spice things up, consider these fun variations:

1. Spicy Spin: Add diced jalapeños or a touch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a delightful heat.
2. Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the mixture for a fresh flavor.
3. Cheese Changes: Swap the mozzarella for gouda or add a sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.

Helpful FAQs

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

How do I ensure the balls don’t fall apart?
Let the macaroni mixture cool completely before forming it into balls; this helps them hold their shape during cooking.

With this delightful recipe, you can impress your friends, satisfy your cravings, and enjoy the comfort of mac and cheese transformed into an easy, shareable snack. Happy cooking!

Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

---

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crispy, golden air fryer macaroni and cheese balls that combine creamy cheese with crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for parties or a cozy night in.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus additional for coating)
• 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
• Vegetable oil for spraying

---

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt the butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
6. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce and let it cool for about 15-20 minutes.
7. Form small balls with the cooled mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. In a shallow dish, beat the egg. In another dish, mix the bread crumbs and panko.
9. Dip each macaroni ball in egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.
10. Arrange the breaded balls back on the baking sheet and spray lightly with vegetable oil.
11. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the balls for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.
12. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

Pair with marinara sauce, spicy ranch, or garlic aioli for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2-3 balls
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, air fryer, appetizer, comfort food