Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese
Indulgence takes on a new form with the Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese. This golden orbs of creamy macaroni and cheese, breaded to perfection, and deep-fried until irresistibly crispy on the outside. If you’ve ever savored this delectable treat at the Cheesecake Factory and wondered if you could recreate it at home, wonder no more!
In this tantalizing blog, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of this recipe. Get ready to impress your taste buds and wow your guests as we uncover the secrets behind the Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese recipe!
Don’t wait try this recipe and enjoy this Crispy Fried Cheese dipping in Cheesecake Factory Ranch Dressing.
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Ingredients Required for Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese
- 120 grams (about 4 ounces) of uncooked macaroni
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp. plain flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup grated fontina cheese
- 1 tbsp. salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for deep-frying
- Marinara sauce
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment & Tools Required
- Large pot or saucepan
- Strainer
- Whisk
- Deep fryer or large, deep skillet
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels and Grater
Let’s Make Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese Step by Step
Step-01: Cook the Macaroni: Follow packet directions and cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step-02: Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add plain flour and whisk into a smooth paste. Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking constantly. Add grated cheddar, Monterey Jack, and fontina cheese. Stir until smooth. Season with 1tbsp. of salt. Remove from heat.
Step-03: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni until well coated.
Step-04: Freeze the Macaroni and Cheese: Flatten the mixture in a rectangular baking dish and freeze for 2 hours.
Step-05: Shape Macaroni and Cheese Balls: After 2 hours, slice portions and shape them into balls. Freeze on a tray for another 2 hours.
Step-06: Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three bowls – beaten eggs mixed with one cup of milk, one cup of flour, and two cups of panko breadcrumbs.
Step-07: Bread the Macaroni and Cheese Balls: Dip each ball into flour, then egg wash, and coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for a thicker coating.
Step-08: Deep-Fry the Balls: Heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F) and fry the coated balls in batches for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step-09: Drain and Serve: Place the fried balls on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Serve with marinara sauce, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Enjoy your Cheesecake Factory-style Fried Macaroni and Cheese!
Please watch the provided video for a more comprehensive understanding.
Serving Ideas for Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese
1. Classic Marinara Dip: Serve the Crispy Fried Cheese with a classic marinara dipping sauce.
2. Spicy Chipotle Mayo: Pair the Crispy Fried Cheese with a spicy chipotle mayo dip.
3. Sweet and Tangy Mango Chutney: Try serving the Crispy Fried Cheese with a sweet and tangy mango chutney.
4. With Thai Chicken Salad: Enjoy this creamy crispy fried cheese with Cheesecake Factory Thai Chicken Salad.
5. Fresh Herbs and Lemon Zest: Garnish the Crispy Fried Cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, and a dash of lemon zest.
6. Sliced Avocado and Lime Wedges: Serve the Crispy Fried Cheese with sliced avocado and lime wedges. The creamy avocado and zesty lime enhance the flavors of the fried cheese.
Feel free to mix and match these serving ideas or come up with your own to create a unique and enjoyable dining experience with Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese!
Some tips for Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese
1. Follow Macaroni Cooking Time: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Overcooking the macaroni may result in a mushy texture in the final dish.
2. Adjust Cheese Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of paprika for extra flavor, according to your preference.
3. Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (180°C / 350°F) before frying the balls. If the oil is too hot, the exterior may brown too quickly, leaving the center uncooked.
4. Use a Slotted Spoon: Use a slotted spoon to carefully place the coated balls in the hot oil and to remove them after frying. This will help drain excess oil and avoid potential splatters.
5. Be Cautious with Hot Oil: When frying, be cautious of hot oil to prevent burns. Keep a safe distance from the pan and use appropriate protective gear if needed.
6. Avoid Overhandling the Balls: Be gentle when shaping the macaroni and cheese balls and during the breading process. Overhandling them may cause the cheese to ooze out or the balls to lose their shape.
The Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese recipe is a delightful and indulgent treat that brings the restaurant’s famous appetizer right to your home kitchen. With its golden-brown and crunchy exterior and ooey-gooey cheesy center, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and guests alike.
Remember to serve the fried cheese balls immediately for the ultimate taste and texture experience. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and witness the smiles and satisfaction of everyone around the table.
So, why not embark on a culinary adventure and treat yourself to the scrumptious delight of Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese – a culinary triumph that will make you feel like a chef extraordinaire!
FAQs on Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese Recipe
Here are some commonly asked questions and and their short answers on Cheesecake Factory Crispy Fried Cheese Recipe
1. Can I use different types of cheese for the recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheeses according to your preference. However, the combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and fontina cheeses provides the classic flavor of the Cheesecake Factory’s fried cheese.
2. Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before using to ensure a smooth consistency.
3. Can I freeze the macaroni and cheese balls for longer than 2 hours?
Yes, you can freeze the macaroni and cheese balls for up to a week before deep-frying them. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their quality.
4. Can I use a different breading for the macaroni and cheese balls?
While panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchy texture, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as an alternative breading.
5. Can I bake the macaroni and cheese balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the macaroni and cheese balls in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
6. Can I use pre-made macaroni and cheese for this recipe?
It’s best to make the macaroni and cheese from scratch for this recipe to ensure the right texture and consistency. Using pre-made macaroni and cheese may not yield the same results.
7. How long can I store the fried cheese balls?
The fried cheese balls are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. However, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat them in the oven before serving.
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