Description
Crispy, golden macaroni and cheese balls made in the air fryer, inspired by The Cheesecake Factory. A delicious appetizer or snack with a creamy, cheesy center.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Mix cooked macaroni, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, milk, and egg in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the balls with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use cold macaroni for easier shaping.
- For extra crispiness, spray with more oil before cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: cheesecake factory, air fryer, mac and cheese balls, fried macaroni, appetizer