Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Handheld comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing; enjoy crispy mac and cheese balls made in the air fryer.


Ingredients

For the macaroni and cheese

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni (Cook according to package instructions.)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (For making the roux.)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (For thickening the cheese sauce.)
  • 1 1/4 cups milk (Add slowly to avoid lumps.)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (For flavor.)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (For flavor.)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (To taste.)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (To taste.)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (For the cheese sauce.)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (For the cheese sauce.)
  • 1 large egg (For binding the breadcrumbs.)

For breading and frying

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (For coating the macaroni balls.)
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (For extra crunch.)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (For dusting the balls.)
  • Vegetable oil for spraying (To help them crisp up in the air fryer.)


Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, making a roux.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
  4. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the milk mixture and continue to whisk until smooth.
  5. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the macaroni.

Forming and Breading the Balls

  1. Let the mixture cool for about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Scoop small portions, roll into balls, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. In a shallow dish, whisk the egg.
  4. In another dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko.
  5. Roll each ball in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
  6. Return the breaded balls to the baking sheet.
  7. Spray each ball lightly with vegetable oil.

Cooking the Balls

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  4. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with warmed marinara or ranch. For a lighter option, try yogurt mixed with lemon and garlic powder. Kids can help shape and bread the balls for added fun.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
  • Cuisine: American