Air Fryer Fried Mac & Cheese Balls: Cheesecake Factory Copycat (Print Version)
How to make crispy Cheesecake Factory-style Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls with creamy centers that your family will devour.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Omnivore
# Ingredients:
→ Mac & Cheese Base
01 -
1 pound elbow macaroni
02 -
2 cups (8 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
03 -
1 cup (4 ounces) Gruyere cheese, freshly shredded
04 -
2 cups whole milk
05 -
1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
06 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
→ Breading & Flavor Boosters
07 -
2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
08 -
2 large eggs, whisked
09 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
10 -
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 -
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
→ Seasonings
12 -
1 teaspoon Kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
13 -
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
14 -
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Air Frying & Garnish
15 -
Vegetable oil spray, as needed
16 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook elbow macaroni until al dente; drain well. In a large pot, melt butter, then whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute. This prepares the creamy base for these Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls.
02 -
Gradually whisk whole milk and heavy cream into the roux until smooth. Add Dijon, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir in freshly shredded cheddar and Gruyere until melted and creamy.
03 -
Fold the cooked macaroni into the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish, press it down firmly, and chill completely for at least 2 hours. This is crucial for forming perfect balls.
04 -
Scoop the chilled mac & cheese into 1.5-inch balls. Dip each ball into whisked eggs, then coat thoroughly with Panko breadcrumbs. This creates the crispy exterior for your Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls.
05 -
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the breaded balls with vegetable oil, then air fry in batches for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
06 -
Garnish your golden Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls with fresh parsley immediately. Serve these delightful bites with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch, for a truly satisfying treat.
# Notes:
01 -
Chill mac & cheese base completely for at least 2 hours; this is crucial for perfectly formed balls and prevents them from falling apart.
02 -
Store leftover mac & cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
03 -
Substitute Fontina or Monterey Jack for cheddar and Gruyere for a similar creamy texture, avoiding pre-shredded cheese.
04 -
Serve warm immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside marinara or ranch for a delightful dipping experience.
05 -
Prepare mac & cheese balls ahead, store unbreaded and refrigerated for up to 2 days; bread and air fry just before serving.
06 -
Toast Panko breadcrumbs lightly before use for a deeper flavor and an even crispier, golden crust.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Air fryer
02 -
large pot
03 -
whisk
04 -
shallow dish
05 -
1.5-inch scoop
06 -
bowls
07 -
vegetable oil spray
08 -
knife
09 -
platter
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 390
Total Fat: 20g
Total Carbohydrate: 37g
Protein: 16g