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Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls You'll Love to Make

These Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside and filled with gooey, cheesy goodness, making them an irresistible snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Balls
  • 1 cup Elbow Macaroni can substitute with penne or cavatappi
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour can use gluten-free flour
  • 1 cup Milk whole milk preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder can use fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder or finely chopped onions
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper increase for more spice
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese can use cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 large Egg for binding, or use a flax egg
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs regular or seasoned
  • 1/2 cup Panko Bread Crumbs for extra crispiness
  • as needed Vegetable Oil for Spraying to achieve golden crust

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • saucepan
  • mixing bowls
  • baking tray
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

How to Make Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
  4. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the thickened milk, mixing until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Stir until melted and mix in the cooked macaroni. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
  6. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, form it into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  7. In one bowl, whisk the large egg to create an egg wash. In another bowl, mix regular breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs together.
  8. Dip each macaroni ball into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully covered, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
  9. Lightly spray the coated balls with vegetable oil. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), then air fry the balls in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Serve optionally with zesty marinara sauce or spicy ranch for an extra kick.

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