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Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

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Delicious, crispy air fryer macaroni and cheese balls that are lighter and quicker to make than traditional frying, perfect for parties or game nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
  5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; whisk until smooth.
  6. Simmer the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  7. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  8. Add the cooked macaroni, stirring to coat evenly.
  9. Let the mixture cool for 15-20 minutes.
  10. Scoop small portions and form them into balls.
  11. Place the balls on a parchment-lined plate.
  12. Beat the egg in a shallow dish.
  13. In another dish, combine the bread crumbs and panko.
  14. Roll each ball in flour, then egg, then the breadcrumb mixture.
  15. Spray each ball lightly with vegetable oil.
  16. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  17. Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  18. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  19. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://voxrecipes.com/cheesecake-factory-air-fryer-fried-macaroni-and-cheese-balls/