Description
Craving the irresistible Cheesecake Factory 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.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
1. Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 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.
3. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce. Spread the mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or until firm.
4. Once chilled, scoop and roll the macaroni mixture into 1½-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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!
Notes
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.
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.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 250
- Calories: 1
- Sugar: 500
- Sodium: 12
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 18