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Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

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  • Author: mohamed
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these fried macaroni and cheese balls are an indulgent treat perfect for parties or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 for spraying

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the flour, whisking for about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the Cheeses: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted.
  6. Mix in the Pasta: Fold in the cooked macaroni.
  7. Cool the Mixture: Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Form the Balls: Scoop and roll the mixture into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Prepare for Breading: Whisk the egg in a shallow dish, and combine bread crumbs and panko in another dish.
  10. Bread the Balls: Dip each ball in egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture.
  11. Preheat the Air Fryer: Spray each ball with vegetable oil, and preheat to 375°F (190°C).
  12. Air Fry: Cook the balls in a single layer for 8-10 minutes or until golden-brown.
  13. Serve and Enjoy: Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Make-ahead tip: Prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to fry.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 balls
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Find it online: https://recipesbyellie.com/cheesecake-factory-fried-macaroni-and-cheese-balls/