Teresa's Recipes
Crispy Air Fryer Mac and Cheese
Indulge in this irresistible air fryer mac and cheese that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a perfectly crispy topping. This dish is a modern twist on a classic comfort food, bringing together the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and savory Parmesan, all enveloped in tender elbow macaroni. A quick and satisfying meal that's sure to please both kids and adults alike, it can be whipped up in no time for a cozy family dinner or a fun movie night snack. The air fryer gives it a golden crust that elevates this beloved dish to new heights!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 2 cups, shredded Sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure all the pasta is coated in the cheesy goodness.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, mixing until well combined.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese in an air fryer-safe dish or basket.
- Place the mac and cheese in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy delight!
Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding some cooked bacon or diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
- You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in an additional splash of milk before air frying.