Indulge in Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls Today!

Craving the irresistible Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and cheese balls? Now you can satisfy that craving right at home with this easy air fryer recipe! These crispy, golden-brown macaroni balls are packed with a creamy, cheesy interior that will have your taste buds doing backflips. Get ready to experience the perfect marriage of crunchy and gooey in every bite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1¼ cups milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup bread crumbs
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for spraying

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Cook Macaroni

Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

Combine and Chill

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce. Spread the mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or until firm.

Form Balls

Once chilled, scoop and roll the macaroni mixture into 1½-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Breading Station

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with ¼ cup flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with a mix of the bread crumbs and panko. Roll each ball in the flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.

Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the mac and cheese balls with vegetable oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Serve the hot, air-fried macaroni and cheese balls with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch. Prepare to be amazed by the perfectly crispy exterior and irresistibly creamy, cheesy interior!

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

To ensure the best texture and flavor, be sure to use high-quality cheese, chill the macaroni mixture thoroughly, and air fry the balls in batches for even cooking. Letting the mixture chill completely is key for forming the perfect balls that hold their shape.

Variations and Add-Ins

Get creative with your Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls by experimenting with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or Gouda. You can also add a kick of heat by incorporating spices like cayenne or paprika. For a more robust flavor, try mixing in cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or sautéed onions.

Nutritional Information

While the Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are a decadent treat, air frying them can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content compared to deep-frying. A single serving (about 3 balls) contains approximately 250 calories, 12 grams of fat, and 18 grams of carbohydrates. This makes for a more guilt-free indulgence than the traditional deep-fried version.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sauce is good for macaroni balls?

The Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include marinara, ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a zesty barbecue sauce.

What cheese is in Cheesecake Factory Fried Cheese?

The Cheesecake Factory’s fried macaroni and cheese balls are typically made with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, just like in this homemade recipe. The creamy, melty combination of these two cheeses creates the signature gooey center that makes the dish so irresistible.

How do you fry mac and cheese balls in the air fryer?

To air fry the Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls, simply preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the balls with vegetable oil, and arrange them in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

How many calories are in deep fried mac and cheese?

A single serving of deep-fried macaroni and cheese balls can contain upwards of 400-500 calories, depending on the size and the amount of oil used in the frying process. By using an air fryer, this recipe for Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls significantly reduces the calorie and fat content, making it a more health-conscious option.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
• Loaded Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake
• BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Quesadilla Bake

The Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are the perfect balance of crispy and creamy, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack. With the convenience of the air fryer, you can enjoy this beloved Cheesecake Factory dish from the comfort of your own home. Get ready to dive in and savor every delectable bite!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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