A serving of creamy mac n cheese from the air fryer, oozing with melted cheese and a crispy topping.
AirFryerRecipe.co.uk
Easy and Creamy
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Emma Lawson | 
16.07.2025

Mac n Cheese Air Fryer Recipe

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our mac n cheese air fryer recipe. This version is creamy, easy, and perfect for quick meal preparation. Made with pasta elbows and a choice of non-dairy milk option, this dish creates a deliciously crispy cheese topping. Prepare a foil-covered dish and season with paprika for added flavour.
Prep Time
10m
Cook
15m
Total Time
25m
Yield
serves 4
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Main Course
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Vegetables

What You’ll Need for Mac n Cheese

Essential Ingredients

  • 200g pasta elbows
  • 150ml milk
  • 100g cheddar cheese
  • 25g butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika

Bacon Bits

Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavour and texture. The smokiness of the bacon complements the creamy cheese perfectly. Simply fry up some bacon strips until they're crispy, crumble them, and sprinkle on top of your mac n cheese before serving. The contrast between the creamy pasta and crispy bacon is delightful.

Why Use Pasta Elbows

Pasta elbows are ideal for mac and cheese as they hold the sauce well, ensuring each bite is packed with flavour. Their compact shape allows them to cook evenly in the air fryer, while the hollow centre traps the cheesy sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Always opt for high-quality pasta for the best results.

Steps to Cook Mac n Cheese in Air Fryer

Let’s get into making this mac n cheese air fryer recipe.

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
  2. Boil pasta elbows in salted water until al dente.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter and add milk, stirring continuously.
  4. Add cheddar cheese slowly, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Mix pasta with the cheese sauce and pour into a foil-covered dish.
  6. Season the top with paprika.
  7. Place dish in the air fryer and cook for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Avoid Overcooking

Ensure the pasta remains al dente before adding it to the cheese sauce to prevent a mushy texture.
Close-up of pasta elbows coated in a rich cheese sauce, ready for the air fryer.

Nutrition for Mac n Cheese Air Fryer

Calories: 450 | Protein: 18g | Carbs: 55g | Fat: 20g

Serving Suggestions for Mac n Cheese Air Fryer

Pair this mac n cheese air fryer creation with a fresh green salad to balance the richness. It’s also delightful alongside grilled chicken or a simple tomato soup, making for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cosy evening in, this dish brings warmth and redefines comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Mac n Cheese Recipe

This mac n cheese air fryer recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish. The simplicity in its preparation makes it ideal for any home cook, while its creamy texture and crispy cheese topping guarantee satisfaction. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk for more delicious air fryer recipes that’ll elevate your cooking game. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is bound to impress both family and friends.

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FAQs about Mac n Cheese Air Fryer

Is air fryer mac and cheese healthier?

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Yes, air fryer mac and cheese can be healthier as it uses less oil and allows for a crispy topping without extra calories.
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Can I make mac and cheese in the air fryer without egg?

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Absolutely, our air fryer mac and cheese uses no egg and remains creamy and delicious.
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Can I use non-dairy milk for air fryer mac and cheese?

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Yes, a non-dairy milk option works well, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
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How do I get a crispy top on air fryer mac and cheese?

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Simply season with paprika and ensure a foil-covered dish for even baking.
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