Creamy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Recipe
Indulging in a comforting bowl of mac and cheese is a universal joy, and with the help of an air fryer, it’s never been easier to make. This Creamy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese simplifies the process while delivering a rich, cheesy flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, ready in about 20 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni: Small, curved pasta perfect for soaking up creamy cheese sauce.
- 1 cup water: Essential for cooking the macaroni and creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness to the dish, making it wonderfully creamy.
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided: The bold, tangy flavor of sharp cheddar makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the richness.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory, aromatic touch to the mac and cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
- Take a 7-inch deep pan that fits into your air fryer basket.
- In the pan, mix elbow macaroni, water, heavy cream, ¾ of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, dry mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed, coating the macaroni in the creamy sauce.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 360°F (approximately 182°C). This temperature ensures the pasta cooks properly while the cheese melts and forms a smooth sauce.
3. Cook the Mac and Cheese:
- Carefully place the pan into the air fryer basket.
- Set the timer for 18-20 minutes.
- As the mac and cheese cooks, the steam from the water will soften the pasta, and the heavy cream and cheese will combine to form a rich, creamy sauce.
4. Add Remaining Cheese:
- Halfway through cooking, at around the 9-10 minute mark, pause the air fryer and open the basket.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the macaroni.
- Gently stir to incorporate the cheese, ensuring it melts into the dish for a gooey, cheesy top layer.
5. Finish Cooking:
- Close the air fryer and continue cooking for the remaining time (another 8-10 minutes).
- Check for doneness; the pasta should be al dente, as it will continue to soften after being removed from the air fryer.
6. Cooling Period:
- Once the timer goes off, open the air fryer and give the mac and cheese a good stir.
- Carefully remove the pan from the basket and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. During this time, the dish will thicken, resulting in an irresistibly creamy texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- After the cooling period, it’s time to serve! Dish out generous portions of your creamy mac and cheese, and enjoy the combination of cheesy, comforting goodness.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese:
- Air Fryer Variability: Different air fryer brands may vary in cooking times and temperatures. Check your mac and cheese a minute or two before the recommended cooking time, especially if you’re making this recipe for the first time.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is the star, you can mix in other cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Add-Ins: For additional flavor and texture, consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
This Creamy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese recipe makes the perfect, indulgent comfort food in record time. Enjoy the rich, cheesy flavor with minimal hassle, and get ready for a meal everyone will love!