Air Fryer Mac And Cheese: Quick, Easy, Cheesy!

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, and it's even better when you can make it in your air fryer with minimal prep and no stovetop cooking. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a tasty, comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. The best part? You don't need to pre-boil the pasta, making this dish even more convenient and quick to put together. The air fryer gives the mac and cheese a crispy, golden crust that's hard to resist, and you can customise it with your favourite cheeses and seasonings.

Choosing the right cheese

• Freshly grate your own block cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents, which can create an odd, grainy texture in your mac and cheese. Grating your own block cheese ensures a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Go for mature, sharp cheddar: Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for mac and cheese, and for good reason. Mature or sharp cheddar has a strong flavour and melts well, making it ideal for this dish.
• Mix and match: Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations. For example, you could try a blend of cheddar and parmesan, or even add in some gruyere for extra depth of flavour.
• Velveeta for creaminess: While some people may not be fans of Velveeta, it can add a creamy texture to your mac and cheese. If you're looking for an extra-creamy dish, consider using Velveeta in your recipe.
• Amount of cheese: Depending on the recipe, you'll typically need around 8 ounces (225 grams) of block cheese or 2 cups of shredded cheese. However, feel free to adjust the amount to your taste preferences.

Remember, the key to a great air fryer mac and cheese is a cheese that melts well and has a strong flavour. So, choose a variety that you love and that ticks these boxes, and you'll be well on your way to a delicious, cheesy dish!

Using the right dish

You can use a variety of materials for the dish, such as foil trays, oven-proof baking dishes, or even specialised air fryer-safe silicone baking dishes. The size and shape of your dish will depend on the model of your air fryer, so it's important to choose one that fits properly.

For example, if you're using an 8-inch cake tin, a deep dish that fits inside your air fryer model is recommended. If you're using a 7-inch pan, ensure it's deep enough to hold all the ingredients and fits inside your air fryer.

Additionally, it's important to grease your dish properly before adding the ingredients. You can brush the dish with melted butter or use cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after cooking.

Remember, always choose a dish that is safe for use in your air fryer and allows for proper air circulation during cooking.

Pre-cooking the pasta

However, if you are using a larger pasta shape, it may take longer than the recommended cooking time, so it is important to check the pasta regularly to ensure it is cooked to your liking. Additionally, different air fryers may cook at different speeds, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your mac and cheese while it's cooking to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

When preparing the pasta for air fryer mac and cheese, it is recommended to use standard dried macaroni (elbow pasta) as it is small and cooks quickly. You can also use other short pasta shapes such as penne, but keep in mind that larger shapes may require a longer cooking time.

Adding extra ingredients

There are many ways to add extra ingredients to your air fryer mac and cheese to make it even more delicious. Here are some ideas for ingredients you can add before cooking:

• Spices: Cayenne pepper, chilli flakes, dried oregano, or smoked paprika can add a kick to your dish.
• Meat: Try adding cooked bacon pieces or chorizo crumbs for a heartier meal.
• Vegetables: Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or pesto can add extra flavour and colour.

You can also add some extra ingredients after cooking to garnish your mac and cheese:

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh flavour.
• Breadcrumbs: Add some toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
• Cheese: If you want even more cheese, sprinkle over some extra shredded cheese and air fry for a few minutes until melted.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for air fryer mac and cheese can vary depending on the type of air fryer and pasta used. It is important to note that different air fryers may cook at different speeds, so it is recommended to check on the mac and cheese halfway through the cooking process and adjust the timing as needed. Similarly, the cook time may also depend on the type of pasta used, with larger pasta shapes potentially requiring longer cooking times.

Most recipes suggest preheating the air fryer between 340°F and 360°F. The cook time for the mac and cheese ranges from 18 to 30 minutes, with frequent stirring every 5 to 7 minutes to ensure even cooking. It is important to note that the mac and cheese may still look watery at the end of the cooking time, but it will thicken upon resting. Therefore, it is recommended to cover the pan and let the mac and cheese rest for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking to achieve the desired creamy consistency.

Frequently asked questions