How do you make Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls?

The key is to start with cooked macaroni and a rich cheese sauce. Form the mixture into balls, bread them, and air fry until golden brown and crispy. Refer to the recipe for specific measurements and timing.

What temperature and time should I use for air frying mac and cheese balls?

Air fry the breaded mac and cheese balls at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures they're evenly cooked and golden on all sides.

Can you freeze homemade air fryer mac and cheese balls?

Yes, you can freeze them! Flash freeze the unbaked, breaded mac and cheese balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What sides go well with air fryer mac and cheese balls?

Consider pairing them with a fresh salad, marinara sauce for dipping, or a simple roasted vegetable. They also make a great appetizer before a larger meal.

Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Mac & Cheese Balls: 5 Easy Secrets

Description

Crispy, golden air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls inspired by The Cheesecake Factory.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound elbow macaroni
6 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
3 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Instructions

Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up.
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, place the beaten eggs. In the third, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Use a spoon or small ice cream scoop to scoop out portions of the chilled mac and cheese. Roll each portion into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Dredge each mac and cheese ball in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumb mixture.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the mac and cheese balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd.
Spray the mac and cheese balls lightly with more cooking spray. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the air fryer fried mac and cheese balls from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 250
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Cheesecake Factory, Mac and Cheese, Air Fryer, Fried Mac and Cheese Balls