Air Fryer Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the perfect combination of crispy and creamy with this Air Fryer Mac and Cheese. It’s a quick and easy recipe that gives you a golden, crunchy top and a gooey, cheesy interior in just minutes. Ideal for a comforting meal or side dish, this recipe brings the ultimate mac and cheese experience right to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional for a crispy topping
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well coated with the cheesy goodness.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Assemble and Air Fry:
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the air fryer basket, spreading it out evenly.
- For a crispy finish, sprinkle the top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after air frying to allow the cheese to set. Serve warm and enjoy!