You can make delicious, creamy Mac & Cheese in the air fryer — and it’s surprisingly easy. This version gives you that classic gooey center with a crispy, golden top, all in under 30 minutes.
🧀 Air Fryer Mac & Cheese
⏱ Total Time: 25–30 minutes
🍽 Serves: 4–6
🔥 Best for: Air fryer-safe baking dish (6–8 inch)
🧂 Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or more milk)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella (optional, for stretch)
- ¼ cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tbsp butter (for breadcrumbs)
🔪 Instructions:
1. Pre-cook Pasta
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water for about 2 minutes less than package directions (al dente). Drain and set aside.
2. Make Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, combine milk, cream, cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, and seasonings.
- Stir in the drained macaroni to fully coat.
3. Assemble in Dish
- Pour the mac & cheese mixture into an oven-safe, air fryer-friendly baking dish (ceramic or metal works best).
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle on top.
4. Air Fry
- Place dish in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 15–18 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- If needed, cover loosely with foil halfway to prevent over-browning.
5. Serve
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve hot and cheesy!
🔁 Optional Add-ins:
- Bacon bits
- Jalapeños
- Broccoli florets
- Pulled chicken or ham