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recipe cheesecake factory air fryer fried macaroni and cheese balls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls 1x
- Diet: General
Description
These air-fried mac and cheese bites feature a creamy, cheesy interior and a crispy golden exterior, elevated with a luxurious saffron-cheddar swirl. A delightful twist on a classic comfort food!
Ingredients
Scale
- 200g (7oz) Elbow Macaroni: Cook al dente for best results.
- 150g (5oz) Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a stretchy, mild flavor.
- 150g (5oz) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided: Adds a bold, tangy flavor.
- 2 Large Eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
- 30ml (2 Tbsp) Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness.
- 60ml (1/4 cup) Whole Milk, divided: Loosens the cheese sauce and infuses saffron.
- ¼ tsp Saffron Threads: Imparts a golden hue and floral aroma.
- 60g (½ cup) All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind and provides a base for breadcrumbs.
- 120g (1 cup) Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy texture.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor.
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder: Provides savory depth.
- ½ tsp Onion Powder: Adds a subtle savory note.
- ½ tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- ½ tsp Salt: Enhances all flavors.
- 30ml (2 Tbsp) Vegetable Oil Spray: Helps achieve a golden-brown exterior.
- 2 Tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds color and freshness.
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and cool.
- Infuse Saffron: Warm milk and steep saffron for 5 minutes.
- Combine Mixture: Mix macaroni, mozzarella, cheddar, eggs, cream, flour, and spices.
- Prepare Swirl: Melt cheddar with saffron-infused milk.
- Shape Balls: Scoop macaroni mixture, add swirl, and roll into balls.
- Coat with Panko: Roll balls in panko breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Spray with oil and air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool & Garnish: Cool slightly, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
For extra crispiness, ensure the air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded and shake it halfway through cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg