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Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

Crispy Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Delicious air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, perfect for snacks or gatherings.
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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: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese Filling
  • 1 cup Elbow macaroni Substitute with penne or cavatappi if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour Cornstarch works as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 cup Milk Almond milk or oat milk can be substituted for a non-dairy option.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh minced garlic provides a stronger taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Shallots serve as a fresh substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Omit if you're watching sodium intake.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Cayenne can spice it up more.
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Opt for dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast is a great non-dairy substitution.
  • 1 large Egg Flaxseed meal mixed with water works as a vegan binder.
For the Crunchy Coating
  • 1 cup Bread crumbs Crushed cornflakes or gluten-free bread crumbs can be used instead.
  • 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs Regular bread crumbs will work, but won’t be as crunchy.
  • as needed Vegetable oil for spraying Olive or canola oil can be healthier options.

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • saucepan
  • mixing bowls
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble. Add all-purpose flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring to avoid lumps until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes, then blend in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
  5. Stir in the cooked macaroni until thoroughly coated, then remove from heat and allow to cool for about 15-20 minutes.
  6. Roll small portions of the mixture into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
  7. In one dish, beat an egg. In another, combine bread crumbs and panko bread crumbs. Dip each ball into the egg then roll in the breadcrumb mixture.
  8. Lightly spray the breaded balls with vegetable oil. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Arrange the balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  10. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces!

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For leftovers, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to preserve crispiness.

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