Craving comfort food with a modern twist? This Air Fried Mac & Cheese delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy golden topping—all made effortlessly in your air fryer. By using the air fryer, you get that perfect balance of gooey cheese and crunchy texture without the hassle of traditional baking.
This recipe is quick, family-friendly, and adaptable, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
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_result.jpg "Air Fried Mac & Cheese Recipe - Crowd-Pleasing Party Side")
Why Air Fryer Mac & Cheese?
Mac and cheese is a timeless classic, loved for its rich, creamy texture and nostalgic appeal. Using an air fryer takes it to the next level by speeding up the cooking process and adding a delightful crispy top layer. The air fryer circulates hot air to evenly cook the dish, ensuring every bite is perfectly cheesy with a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to deep-frying, using minimal oil to achieve that golden finish. This recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for beginners or seasoned cooks looking to try something new.
Ingredients
To make this air fryer mac and cheese, gather these pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each component is linked to help you find quality products for the best results.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for bold flavor)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky kick)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For a healthier twist, consider pairing this meal with supplements like Fibre Select, a vital fiber powder that supports digestion and enhances overall well-being.
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You don’t need much to whip up this dish, but having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need, with links to reliable products:
- Air fryer (6-quart or larger recommended)
- Saucepan for cooking pasta
- Whisk for smooth cheese sauce
- Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons
- Colander for draining pasta
- Oven-safe baking dish (small enough to fit in your air fryer)
Recommended Air Fryer
For the best results, I recommend the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer – 9-in-1 Versatility, Turbo Speed, 95% Less Oil!. Here’s why it’s perfect for this recipe:
✅ 9 Cooking Functions – Air fry, roast, bake, dry, reheat & more
✅ TurboBlaze Technology – 3600 RPM fan for ultra-fast, even cooking
✅ Precise Temperature Control – 90°–450°F for perfect texture every time
✅ 6-Qt Family Size – Cook larger meals with a space-saving design
✅ Up to 95% Less Oil – Crispy, guilt-free frying without excess fat
✅ Quiet & Efficient – Operates under 53 dB for a peaceful kitchen
✅ Dishwasher-Safe Basket – Hassle-free cleaning for easy meal prep
✅ 100+ In-App Recipes – Get inspired with chef-crafted meals
✅ Customizable Preheat & 4 Turbo Modes – Cook your way with precision
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More Air Fryer Inspiration!
Want to explore other creative dishes? The Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros offers a treasure trove of recipes to keep your meals exciting and healthy.
_result.jpg "Air Fried Mac & Cheese Recipe - Perfect for Cheese Lovers")
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain using a colander and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to soften in the air fryer.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika if using. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish that fits inside your air fryer.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix ½ cup panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese for a crispy finish.
Step 5: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F. Place the baking dish in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Check halfway through to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool for 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Discover New Flavors!
Love this recipe? The Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros has even more ideas to satisfy your cravings, all tailored for your air fryer.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 48g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g
To support a balanced diet, try NuviaLab Sugar Control, a supplement designed to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and reduce appetite, complementing indulgent meals like this one.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
- Extra Crunch: Mix crushed crackers with the panko breadcrumbs for more texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F for 5-7 minutes.
For those looking to manage portion sizes, Crave Burner can help control appetite and support your weight management goals.
Keep Cooking with Ease!
Find more air fryer recipes in the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros. It’s packed with healthy, hassle-free dishes for every occasion.
Customizations
This recipe is versatile! Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, chicken, or sausage for a heartier dish.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for the sauce.
- Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and vegan butter.
To support a healthy lifestyle, consider Moringa Actives, a supplement that aids weight loss and boosts metabolism, perfect for balancing indulgent meals.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your air fryer mac and cheese with these sides for a complete meal:
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic bread for extra comfort
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or carrots
For a refreshing drink, try Matcha Extreme, a supplement that makes delicious tea while supporting weight control and detoxification.
Master Your Air Fryer!
Get the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros to unlock endless possibilities for quick, healthy meals.
Why This Recipe Works
The air fryer ensures a perfectly cooked dish with minimal effort. The cheese sauce clings to every piece of elbow macaroni, while the panko topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days. Plus, the COSORI Air Fryer guarantees even cooking and easy cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.
_result.jpg "Air Fried Mac & Cheese Recipe - A Family Favorite Reinvented")
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