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Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

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Crispy air-fried macaroni and cheese balls packed with cheesy goodness, perfect for game night or casual gatherings.

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 (for dusting)
  • Vegetable oil for spraying

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk until thickened.
  3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce, then stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth.
  4. Combine the cooled macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix in the beaten egg.
  5. Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Form balls with about 2 tablespoons of the mixture.
  7. Coat the balls in flour, then dip in egg, and roll in bread crumbs.
  8. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, air fryer, comfort food, appetizer, Cheesecake Factory

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