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The Ultimate Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

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  • Prep Time: 30 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 Minutes
  • Total Time: 50 Minutes
  • Yield: 8 Servings 1x
  • Category: Easy Dinner Recipes

Description

How to make Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls that are crispy, craveable, and perfect for any party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Mac & Cheese Base:
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened and divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • Coating & Binding:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Seasonings:
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Finishing Touches:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, or non-stick cooking spray
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Macaroni: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well. While it cooks, melt 1/2 stick butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1 minute until lightly golden.
  2. Develop Sauce: Gradually whisk 3 cups whole milk into the roux until smooth and thickened. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a rich, flavorful cheese sauce.
  3. Combine & Chill: Fold the cooked macaroni into your creamy cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer this mixture to a shallow dish, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This is crucial for forming perfect Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls.
  4. Form & Coat: Set up a breading station: one bowl with 1 cup all-purpose flour, one with 2 beaten large eggs, and another with 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs combined with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Scoop chilled mac and cheese, roll into 1-inch balls, then dredge in flour, dip in egg, and coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
  5. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the formed Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls with vegetable oil. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd, and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden.
  6. Serve Warm: Your Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are ready when golden brown and crispy. Garnish with 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy these craveable, ultimate Cheesecake Factory Mac & Cheese bites!

Notes

Chilling the mac and cheese mixture for at least 2 hours is crucial; it prevents balls from falling apart during cooking.

Store leftover mac and cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days to maintain freshness.

Feel free to substitute sharp cheddar and Gruyère with Monterey Jack, fontina, or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.

Serve warm, straight from the air fryer, with a side of spicy sriracha mayo for a delicious creamy and crunchy contrast.

For make-ahead, form and bread the balls, then flash freeze on a tray before storing in an airtight freezer bag.

Toast Panko breadcrumbs lightly before coating for extra crispiness and a deeper golden crunch on your mac and cheese balls.

**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Eggs, Gluten

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Find it online: https://baketrove.com/the-ultimate-cheesecake-factory-air-fryer-fried-mac-and-cheese-balls/