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Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Delight in these Crispy Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls, perfect for satisfying cheesy cravings without the guilt of deep frying.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese Filling
  • 2 cups Elbow macaroni Can be substituted with penne or rotini.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 1 cup Milk Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder Enhances flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Onion powder Adds savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Elevates overall taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper Adds subtle kick.
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Key ingredient for gooeyness.
  • 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Brings a sharp flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
For the Coating
  • 0.5 cup Bread crumbs Creates a crunchy outer layer.
  • 0.5 cup Panko bread crumbs Adds extra crispiness.
  • as needed Vegetable oil for spraying Ensures a crispy coating.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large pot
  • Parchment Paper
  • Shallow dishes

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until thickened.
  3. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  4. Fold the macaroni into the cheese sauce and let cool for about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Form the mixture into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Set up a breading station with beaten egg and a mix of bread crumbs and panko.
  7. Coat each ball in the egg, then in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
  8. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes and spray the basket with vegetable oil.
  9. Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These mac and cheese balls can be customized with different spices and cheese blends for varied flavors. Serve fresh for best taste.

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