Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls
Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls are a delightful fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese encased in a crunchy, golden-brown shell. Perfect for parties or a cozy night at home, these savory bites are easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost that will impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings (12 balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until well mixed.
- 3. Add eggs to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- 4. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are tightly packed.
- 5. Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- 6. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the balls in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
- 7. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (80g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or add cooked bacon bits for a savory twist. - Chill the formed balls for about 30 minutes before air frying to help them maintain their shape during cooking.