Introduction:
Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food loved by many, and when you add a crispy, golden-brown topping, it becomes an irresistible treat. While traditionally baked in the oven, using an air fryer to make mac and cheese offers a faster, more convenient way to achieve that perfect texture and flavor. The air fryer cooks the dish evenly and quickly, leaving you with a cheesy, creamy interior and a deliciously crunchy exterior. This quick and easy recipe will become a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta)
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Instructions:
Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Once the pasta is done, drain and set aside. In a separate saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux (a thick paste). Cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Once combined, transfer the mac and cheese to a heatproof dish that fits in your air fryer basket.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese for a crispy, golden topping.
Air Fry the Mac and Cheese:
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Place the dish with the mac and cheese into the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Depending on your air fryer model, cooking times may vary, so check halfway through for the perfect crispiness.
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