Air Fryer Mac and Cheese
This Air Fryer Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish with a perfectly golden, crispy top, making it a comforting favorite for any occasion.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1.5 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 8 ounces block cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 teaspoon ground mustard powder
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.125 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce - In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and whole milk, stirring until combined. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add shredded cheddar cheese, salt, ground mustard powder, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce - In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, folding gently until coated.
- Step 4: Air Fry the Mac and Cheese - Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a heatproof dish or greased air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway. For a crispier top, increase temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 3 minutes.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Medium Saucepan
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Heatproof Dish
Notes
For a creamier texture, add more heavy cream or milk. Use freshly shredded cheese for best results. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer.