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
Main Course
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.
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
Boil pasta elbows in salted water until al dente.
In a saucepan, melt butter and add milk, stirring continuously.
Add cheddar cheese slowly, stirring until melted and smooth.
Mix pasta with the cheese sauce and pour into a foil-covered dish.
Season the top with paprika.
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.
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.