"Air Fryer Macaroni and Cheese 🧀: I love this quick and easy recipe; it's a beginner's delight..."
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) Cooking spray
Instructions:
Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese Mix:
Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute, or until it thickens into a paste-like consistency.
Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Continue whisking and cooking the mixture until it thickens and becomes smooth. This usually takes 2 to 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional spices like garlic powder or onion powder.
Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
Assemble the Macaroni and Cheese:
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish that fits your air fryer. Make sure the dish is suitable for air frying.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
To Air Fryer the Mac and Cheese:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the dish with the mac and cheese in the air fryer basket.
To Air Fryer:
Cook the mac and cheese at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Check regularly to avoid overcooking, as air fryers vary in cooking times.
Serve and Enjoy:
When finished, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer. Let it cool for a few minutes for the cheese to set, then serve.
Notes:
Adjust the cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on your specific air fryer model. Keep a close eye on the mac and cheese while cooking to avoid overcooking or burning.
Customize: Feel free to customize your mac and cheese with additional ingredients like bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or chopped herbs.
Choose a pan: Make sure your baking pan fits comfortably in your air fryer. You may need to experiment with different pans to find the one that works best for you.
Preheat: Preheating your air fryer is important to ensure even cooking.
Grease the basket: Using cooking spray on the basket or tray can prevent food from sticking.