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Crispy Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls - featured image
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Golden-fried macaroni and cheese balls with a crispy crust and gooey cheesy center, made easy and mess-free using an air fryer. Perfect for game nights, parties, or a comforting snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour for dredging
  • Oil spray (avocado oil recommended)

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth and paste-like without browning.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly, and cook until sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Let cool slightly, then chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into tight balls. Place on a tray.
  7. Set up breading stations with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
  8. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double dip in egg and panko.
  9. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  10. Spray each ball lightly with oil spray and place in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  11. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  12. Let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Chilling the macaroni and cheese mixture is crucial for firm balls that hold their shape. Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier crust. Double coating with egg and panko adds extra crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese balls, air fryer, crispy, appetizer, snack, comfort food, Cheesecake Factory style

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/crispy-cheesecake-factory-air-fryer-fried-macaroni-and-cheese-balls-recipe-perfectly-easy-and-homemade/