Discover an effortless way to make creamy and cheesy mac and cheese in your air fryer! No need to boil the pasta beforehand—just combine the ingredients, let the air fryer work its magic, and enjoy a comforting meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families and mac and cheese lovers of all ages.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try!

• Hassle-Free Preparation: Skip the stovetop—no need to pre-boil the pasta.
• Quick and Easy: Only 7 ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Loved by All: A family favorite that’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfectly Cooked: The air fryer ensures the pasta is cooked to perfection with a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Ingredients and Alternatives

• Macaroni: Use standard dried elbow macaroni for quick cooking. Substitute with small shell pasta or mini penne if needed.
• Cheese: A blend of extra-mature cheddar and Parmesan adds rich flavor. You can also try Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a unique twist.
• Milk: Whole milk is ideal for this recipe. For extra creaminess, mix half heavy cream and half water.
• Seasonings: Mustard powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika elevate the flavor. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or dried herbs like oregano for variation.

How to Make

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 170°C (340°F) and preheat for a few minutes. Set the timer to 30 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients: In an oven-proof dish that fits your air fryer basket, add the dried macaroni, grated cheddar, Parmesan, mustard powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
3. Add the Liquid: Pour in the whole milk and stir to combine. Ensure all the macaroni is submerged.
4. Cook and Stir: Place the dish in the air fryer and cook for 25-30 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The cheese sauce may appear to separate initially, but it will come together as you stir.
5. Check Doneness: After about 20 minutes, start checking the macaroni for doneness. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

• Cooking Time: Adjust based on the pasta type. Larger shapes may require a few extra minutes.
• Dish Selection: Use an air fryer-safe dish such as foil trays, ceramic baking dishes, or silicone molds.
• Consistency: Stirring frequently ensures a creamy sauce and prevents the cheese from clumping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your mac and cheese straight from the air fryer for the best texture and flavor. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Add toppings like crispy bacon bits, toasted breadcrumbs, or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added flair.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, but note that the pasta may dry out slightly. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing due to the cheese sauce’s texture.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or crumbled sausage.
• Vegetarian Twist: Add cooked broccoli, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Herbaceous Touch: Garnish with fresh herbs like chives, basil, or dill.
• Leftover Magic: Use leftovers to make crispy air fryer mac and cheese balls.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other small pasta shapes like mini penne, shells, or rotini. Cooking time may vary.

What if I don’t have mustard powder?
You can skip it or replace it with a small amount of Dijon mustard for a similar flavor.

Why does the cheese sauce separate?
The sauce may appear separated initially, but stirring regularly helps to emulsify it into a smooth consistency.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and unsweetened almond or oat milk. Note that the texture may differ slightly.

What toppings work best for mac and cheese?
Bacon bits, toasted breadcrumbs, or freshly chopped herbs like parsley are great additions for extra flavor and texture.

Quick Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Recipe

Enjoy this simple and satisfying air fryer mac and cheese recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Course: Pasta
Cuisine: British
Prep Time: 4 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 34 minutes
Servings: 3
Calories: 535 kcal

Ingredients

• 150g macaroni
• 150g extra mature cheddar, grated
• 30g Parmesan, grated
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• 500ml whole milk

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 170°C (340°F) and set the timer for 30 minutes.
2. In an oven-proof dish, combine macaroni, grated cheddar, Parmesan, mustard powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Pour in the milk and mix well.
4. Place the dish in the air fryer and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
5. Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce is creamy, season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

• Use an air fryer-safe dish that fits your basket.
• Stir frequently for even cooking and a creamy sauce.
• Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 535
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Calcium: 695mg