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Air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls from Cheesecake Factory recipe

Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls

These crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside macaroni and cheese balls are a perfect snack for parties or family nights.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Macaroni and Cheese Mixture
  • 2 cups Macaroni Cook until tender
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Shredded
  • 1/4 cup Cream or Milk To mix until creamy
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1 pinch Pepper
Coating
  • 1/2 cup Flour
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs
For Frying
  • 1 spray Cooking Oil For air fryer basket and tops

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook macaroni until tender, drain well, and let cool.
  2. Mix macaroni with sharp cheddar cheese and cream or milk until creamy.
  3. Add salt and pepper, then chill mac and cheese in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
  4. Scoop chilled mixture and form into small balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide.
Coating
  1. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  2. Roll each ball in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs. Press crumbs gently so they stick.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and spray the basket with oil.
  2. Place the balls in the basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
  3. Lightly spray the tops with oil and air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, turn once, and cook another 4 to 6 minutes until golden and crispy.
  4. Let cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Chill mac and cheese well before shaping to help hold form. You can mix cheeses and freeze the formed balls for future cooking.