Air Fryer Mac And Cheese: Is It Possible?

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort dish that can now be made in an air fryer with minimal cleanup. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be made in about 30 minutes. The best part? You don't even need to boil the pasta first! Simply combine the ingredients, pop them into the air fryer, and you're good to go. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and delicious mac and cheese that both kids and adults will love.

What type of cheese is best?

When it comes to making mac and cheese in an air fryer, the best type of cheese to use is one that melts well and has a strong flavour.

A combination of extra-mature cheddar and Parmesan is recommended for the best flavour. However, you can also use other cheeses such as Gruyere, sharp cheddar, smoked Gouda, pepper jack, mozzarella, or Velveeta. It is also suggested that freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded packaged cheese.

For a richer flavour and creamier texture, you can mix different cheeses such as sharp cheddar, block cheese, Gruyère, and mozzarella.

Do I need to pre-cook the pasta?

The great thing about making mac and cheese in an air fryer is that you don't need to pre-cook the pasta. This is a huge time-saver and means you can make the dish in one appliance without needing to boil water.

To make mac and cheese in an air fryer, simply combine uncooked pasta with your other ingredients and cook. The pasta will cook in the air fryer, absorbing the flavours of the sauce.

However, if you prefer to pre-cook the pasta, you can do so. Just make sure you cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the air fryer.

Option 1: Without Pre-Cooking the Pasta

• Combine uncooked elbow macaroni, water, heavy cream, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and about 3/4ths of the shredded cheese in a 7-inch pan that will fit in your air fryer. Stir until combined.
• Place the pan in the air fryer and cook at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.
• Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and add the remaining cheese, stirring to combine.
• Once the mac and cheese is done cooking, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Option 2: With Pre-Cooked Pasta

• Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
• Combine the cooked pasta with heavy cream, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and about 3/4ths of the shredded cheese in an oven-proof dish that will fit in your air fryer. Stir until combined.
• Place the dish in the air fryer and cook at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.
• Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and add the remaining cheese, stirring to combine.
• Once the mac and cheese is done cooking, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.

How long does it take to cook?

The cooking time for mac and cheese in an air fryer depends on the quantity of mac and cheese, the type of air fryer, and the type of pasta used. Most recipes recommend cooking the dish for 10 to 20 minutes at 360°F (182°C). However, some recipes suggest cooking for up to 30 minutes at a lower temperature of 340°F (170°C).

It's important to note that different air fryers may cook at different speeds, so it's recommended to check the mac and cheese halfway through the cooking process and adjust the timing as needed. Additionally, the type of pasta used can also affect the cooking time. Smaller pasta shapes, such as elbow macaroni, tend to cook faster, while larger shapes may take longer.

When cooking mac and cheese in an air fryer, it's also important to stir the dish regularly, about once every 5 minutes, to ensure even cooking and to prevent the ingredients from sticking or burning.

• Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to the desired temperature, usually between 340°F and 360°F (170°C and 182°C).
• Prepare the mac and cheese: In an oven-proof dish that fits in the air fryer basket, combine the uncooked pasta, cheese, and other desired ingredients such as milk, cream, seasonings, and flavourings.
• Cook the mac and cheese: Place the dish in the air fryer and cook for the recommended time, stirring occasionally. The cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model and the quantity of mac and cheese.
• Stir and add toppings: Once the mac and cheese is cooked, stir it well and add any desired toppings such as breadcrumbs, extra cheese, or bacon bits.
• Allow to thicken: Remove the mac and cheese from the air fryer and let it sit for a few minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
• Serve: Enjoy the creamy and delicious air-fried mac and cheese!

What's the best dish to use?

When making mac and cheese in an air fryer, the best dish to use is an oven-proof dish that fits inside your air fryer basket. This could be a foil tray, an oven-proof baking dish, or a specialised air fryer-safe silicone dish.

The dish should be deep enough to hold all the ingredients and contain any potential spills. It's important to note that foil trays may not be as sturdy as other options and could result in a mess if not used carefully.

Additionally, it is recommended to use a dish with a capacity of at least 7 inches, as a smaller dish may not be able to hold all the ingredients.

Using a dish that fits inside the air fryer basket helps to prevent spills and protect the appliance. It also ensures even cooking and browning of the mac and cheese.

So, when choosing a dish for making mac and cheese in an air fryer, opt for an oven-proof dish that is deep enough, fits inside your air fryer basket, and is at least 7 inches in capacity.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, you can add toppings to your mac and cheese before air frying to create a delicious crust. Here are some topping ideas to elevate your mac and cheese:

• Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy texture, stir in some panko breadcrumbs after the mac and cheese is cooked.
• Extra cheese: Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy kick.
• Bacon: Add some crumbled bacon for a smoky flavour and a crispy texture.
• Ham: Dice up some ham for a hearty and savoury addition.
• Garlic powder: Stir in a little garlic powder to your mac and cheese for a subtle garlic flavour.

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your own unique flavour combinations. Just remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, as the toppings may affect how long your mac and cheese needs to be in the air fryer.

Frequently asked questions