Fried Macaroni and Cheese from The Cheesecake Factory features creamy, melted cheddar macaroni coated in a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, delivering a rich and crunchy comfort food experience.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish
- Baking sheet
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper
- Knife
- Shallow dishes or plates (for breading)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Tongs
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Make sure to use sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese for that authentic creamy and flavorful blend essential to the dish's signature taste. Whole milk provides the ideal richness, while unsalted butter and all-purpose flour create a smooth roux to thicken the sauce perfectly. Fresh spices like garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper enhance the flavor without overpowering the cheese. When breading, use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy and golden crust that does justice to the original texture. Your Fried Macaroni and Cheese from The Cheesecake Factory copycat menu will closely mirror the rich, crunchy comfort food experience you enjoy at the restaurant.
Instructions
- Boil elbow macaroni in a large pot until al dente.
- Drain macaroni using a colander and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese; stir until melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni, mixing until well combined.
- Transfer macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish; spread evenly.
- Let cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Once chilled, cut macaroni and cheese into bite-sized squares or roll into balls.
- Set up a breading station: one shallow dish with 1 cup flour, another with beaten eggs, and a third with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each macaroni piece first in flour, then in egg, and then in breadcrumbs.
- Place breaded pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry macaroni pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove with slotted spoon or tongs and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Fried Macaroni and Cheese from The Cheesecake Factory copycat menu replicates the creamy, cheesy core enveloped in a crunchy, golden breadcrumb crust for an indulgent bite. You can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like shells or penne without compromising texture. When cheddar or mozzarella cheese is unavailable, try Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a slightly different but equally melty flavor. If a deep fryer isn't accessible, shallow frying in a skillet with vegetable oil works well for achieving crispiness. Ensure the oil temperature is around 350degF (175degC) to prevent greasy or undercooked coating.
Tips
Ensure you cool the macaroni and cheese thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to help it set firmly, making it easier to cut and bread without falling apart. When setting up your breading station, coat each piece first in flour, then egg, and finally panko crumbs, as this triple layer ensures a crispy crust that adheres well during frying. Maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while preventing greasy or soggy results. You should use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried pieces and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving.
Nutritions
Fried Macaroni and Cheese from The Cheesecake Factory provides a high-calorie indulgence loaded with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, delivering substantial protein and calcium content. The dish contains a significant amount of fat from butter, cheese, and vegetable oil used for frying, contributing to its rich flavor and crispy texture. Carbohydrates primarily come from elbow macaroni and panko breadcrumbs, offering energy but also increasing the overall calorie density. You should enjoy this comfort food in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially considering its sodium content from seasoning and cheese.
Storage
Store your fried macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy interior and crispy crust. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore crunchiness without sogginess. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the breadcrumb coating to become soggy and the cheese to lose its texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute sharp white cheddar with smoked gouda or fontina to add a different depth of flavor to your fried macaroni and cheese. For a crispier coating, try mixing panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or crushed pretzels before breading. If you prefer baking over frying, bake the breaded pieces in a preheated oven at 400degF (200degC) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot paprika to the breadcrumb mixture can give your dish a mild spicy kick.
Allergies
Fried Macaroni and Cheese from The Cheesecake Factory contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar, mozzarella, and milk, as well as eggs and wheat from the flour and breadcrumbs. If you have lactose intolerance or sensitivity to gluten, this dish may cause adverse reactions. To ensure your safety, always check ingredient labels carefully and consider potential cross-contamination risks.
Why this recipe?
Fried Macaroni and Cheese from Cheesecake Factory captivates diners with its crispy, golden-brown exterior and creamy, rich cheese filling, delivering a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The distinct combination of melted American and Parmesan cheeses creates a nostalgic comfort food feel while offering a gourmet twist that appeals to a wide audience. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize ingredients for personal taste and enjoy a restaurant-quality appetizer without the wait. Your kitchen transforms into a gourmet bistro by mastering this iconic dish, making it a rewarding culinary experience.