Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
• 4 cups water (for boiling)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup additional shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the pasta, then cook according to package instructions (about 7-8 minutes for al dente).
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in the mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes until the cream is heated through.
4. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan), stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat all the noodles evenly.
2. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.
3. Transfer the mac and cheese to an air fryer-safe baking dish (one that fits inside your air fryer basket).

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
3. Top with an additional 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 5: Air Fry

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Place the dish into the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
4. Check after 8 minutes to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. If needed, cover loosely with foil and continue cooking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer.
2. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes & Tips:

• Pasta Choices: Elbow macaroni works best, but shells or cavatappi are great alternatives.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in different cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby for different flavors.
• Creamy vs. Thick: For a creamier mac and cheese, add more milk or cream before air frying.
• Crispier Topping: For extra crunch, broil the mac and cheese in the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes at 400°F.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Mac and Cheese