Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls (Copycat Recipe)

Byarlo Jack

If you’ve ever ordered the fried macaroni and cheese balls at The Cheesecake Factory, you already know how dangerously addictive they are. Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and served with a tangy marinara sauce, they’re the ultimate comfort-food appetizer. The good news? You don’t need a deep fryer or a restaurant reservation to enjoy them at home. This air fryer version of Cheesecake Factory’s fried macaroni and cheese balls delivers the same crunchy coating and gooey center with far less oil and mess.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Version

Air frying mac and cheese balls gives you all the crispiness of deep frying without the excess grease. The hot circulating air creates a golden crust while keeping the inside soft and creamy. Plus, using the air fryer makes cleanup faster and the recipe more accessible for home cooks. This recipe is ideal if you already have leftover macaroni and cheese, but it’s just as easy to make fresh. Either way, the result is a restaurant-quality appetizer that tastes just like the Cheesecake Factory original.

What Makes Cheesecake Factory Mac and Cheese Balls Special

The Cheesecake Factory version stands out because of its rich cheese blend and ultra-crispy breading. The mac and cheese is thick, creamy, and well-seasoned, which allows it to hold its shape when fried. The coating is light yet crunchy, creating the perfect contrast with the soft interior. This copycat recipe focuses on recreating that balance: bold cheese flavor, a firm mac and cheese base, and a crispy exterior that doesn’t fall apart.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and cooled
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Breading

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs

For Cooking

  • Olive oil or cooking spray

For Serving

  • Warm marinara sauce

How to Make Cheesecake Factory Mac and Cheese Balls in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Make the Mac and Cheese

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for about one minute, then slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Let the sauce thicken slightly, then reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

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Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated. The mixture should be thick and creamy, not runny. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mac and cheese to a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This step is essential—it helps the mac and cheese hold its shape when forming the balls.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Once chilled, scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mac and cheese and roll into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bread the Mac and Cheese Balls

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip into egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.

Step 5: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the mac and cheese balls in a single layer, leaving space between them. Spray the tops lightly with oil. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese Balls

  • Make sure the mac and cheese is fully chilled before forming balls to prevent them from falling apart.
  • Use a combination of cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary.
  • Double breading helps achieve a thicker, crunchier crust similar to the Cheesecake Factory version.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and gooey center.

Sauce Options

While marinara sauce is the classic pairing, these mac and cheese balls are also delicious with:

  • Ranch dressing
  • Spicy sriracha mayo
  • Garlic aioli
  • Buffalo sauce

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the mac and cheese balls ahead of time and refrigerate them breaded but uncooked for up to 24 hours. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Why This Recipe Works

This air fryer recipe captures everything people love about Cheesecake Factory’s fried mac and cheese balls: rich cheese flavor, creamy texture, and a perfectly crisp coating. By chilling the mac and cheese and using a proper breading technique, you get a snack that looks and tastes restaurant-quality without deep frying. Whether you’re serving these as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or indulgent treat, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

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Conclusion

Cheesecake Factory air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls are the ultimate comfort-food appetizer made easy at home. With a crispy golden coating and a creamy, cheesy center, this copycat recipe delivers all the indulgence of the restaurant favorite without the need for deep frying. The air fryer gives you the perfect crunch while keeping the inside rich and melty, making these mac and cheese balls ideal for parties, game day, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying.

FAQs: Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Can I use leftover macaroni and cheese for this recipe?
Yes, leftover macaroni and cheese works perfectly as long as it is thick and well-chilled. If it’s too creamy or loose, it may not hold its shape when forming balls.

Why do I need to chill the mac and cheese before shaping?
Chilling firms up the mac and cheese, making it easier to roll into balls and helping them hold their shape during breading and air frying. Skipping this step can cause the balls to fall apart.

Can I freeze mac and cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze them after breading and before cooking. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Do I need to spray the mac and cheese balls with oil?
Lightly spraying the balls with oil helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer. Without oil, they may brown unevenly or stay pale.

What type of breadcrumbs work best?
Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest texture, similar to the Cheesecake Factory version. Seasoned breadcrumbs also work well if you prefer extra flavor.

Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with milk, buttermilk, or a cornstarch slurry. Eggs provide the best adhesion, but alternatives still work in a pinch.

How do I keep the mac and cheese balls from bursting open?
Make sure the mac and cheese is thick, fully chilled, and well-coated with breadcrumbs. Avoid overfilling the balls and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.