Cheesecake Factory Air Fryer Macaroni (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
250 g elbow macaroni
→ Cheese Sauce
02 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 -
310 ml whole milk
05 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
08 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 -
120 g shredded mozzarella cheese
10 -
30 g grated Parmesan cheese
→ Breading
11 -
1 large egg
12 -
60 g plain bread crumbs
13 -
60 g panko bread crumbs
14 -
30 g all-purpose flour
15 -
Vegetable oil spray
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 -
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
03 -
Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
04 -
Stir shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan into the sauce until fully melted and smooth.
05 -
Remove sauce from heat. Add cooked macaroni and stir until pasta is evenly coated. Allow mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes.
06 -
Scoop portions of the cold macaroni mixture and form into even balls by hand. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
07 -
In a shallow dish, beat the egg until combined. In a separate dish, combine bread crumbs and panko.
08 -
Coat each macaroni ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture to evenly cover.
09 -
Return breaded balls to the parchment-lined tray and lightly coat each with vegetable oil spray.
10 -
Preheat air fryer to 190°C.
11 -
Arrange coated balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway, until crisp and golden brown.
12 -
Remove from air fryer and let cool briefly before serving with your preferred dipping sauce.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, ensure the macaroni and cheese mixture is fully cooled before forming into balls for easier handling.
02 -
Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer and achieve even crispiness.