What To Know
- Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our revolutionary guide on how to make baked mac and cheese in an air fryer.
- Cook the mac and cheese in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor or a milder cheddar for a creamier texture.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our revolutionary guide on how to make baked mac and cheese in an air fryer. This innovative approach transforms the classic dish into an irresistibly crispy, cheesy masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
1. Cook the macaroni: Boil the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the sauce and macaroni: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add the salt and pepper to taste. Pour the sauce over the macaroni and stir to combine.
4. Air fry the mac and cheese: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the basket and spread it evenly.
5. Top with bread crumbs: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the mac and cheese.
6. Air fry: Cook the mac and cheese in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy delight!
Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Use a good quality cheese: The type of cheese you use will greatly impact the flavor of your mac and cheese. Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor or a milder cheddar for a creamier texture.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will become mushy and ruin the texture of your mac and cheese. Cook the macaroni al dente, or slightly undercooked.
- Make sure the sauce is thick enough: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the macaroni without being too runny. If the sauce is too thin, add more flour or cornstarch.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other ingredients to your mac and cheese, such as bacon, ham, or vegetables.
Variations
- Spicy mac and cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Broccoli mac and cheese: Stir in some cooked broccoli florets to the mac and cheese mixture before air frying.
- Lobster mac and cheese: Add some cooked lobster meat to the mac and cheese mixture for a luxurious twist.
The Final Verdict
Making baked mac and cheese in an air fryer is a game-changer. This innovative approach results in a dish that is perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey and cheesy on the inside. Whether you are a mac and cheese aficionado or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use other types of pasta besides elbow macaroni?
A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, shells, and rotini are all good choices.
Q: How do I make sure the mac and cheese doesn‘t stick to the air fryer basket?
A: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I make the mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the mac and cheese up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the mac and cheese in the air fryer or oven until heated through.
