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Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls – Crispy & Cheesy Comfort Food

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Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls from The Cheesecake Factory are the ultimate comfort food, loaded with cheesy, buttery goodness and a golden, crunchy finish!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil for spraying

Instructions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons flour to melted butter, whisk for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
  4. Slowly pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
  5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened (~3–4 minutes).
  6. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in cooked macaroni to coat evenly.
  8. Cool macaroni mixture 15–20 minutes.
  9. Form cooled mixture into small balls and place on parchment-lined tray.
  10. Whisk egg in shallow dish. Combine bread crumbs and panko in another shallow dish.
  11. Coat each macaroni ball in egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
  12. Place balls on parchment-lined tray, lightly spray with vegetable oil.
  13. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange balls in single layer without touching.
  14. Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  15. Remove and cool slightly. Serve with dipping sauce of choice.

Notes

  • Ensure macaroni is cooked but firm to avoid mushiness.
  • Optional: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
  • Cool mixture thoroughly to maintain shape.
  • Can prep ahead and refrigerate. Spray with additional oil halfway for crispier texture.

Find it online: https://asilrecipes.com/cheesecake-factory-air-fryer-fried-macaroni-and-cheese-balls-crispy-cheesy-comfort-food/