As the evenings grow darker and colder, the last thing many of us want is to spend hours cooking after a long day. That’s why quick and simple recipes become essential during these months. If you own an air fryer, preparing comforting meals is easier than ever.
One especially satisfying dish to try is air fryer macaroni cheese — a classic comfort food made in just 20 minutes. This rich, creamy dish embodies autumn’s cozy spirit, and the air fryer adds a delightful crispy topping that balances perfectly with the smooth cheese sauce.
You only need a handful of pantry staples like pasta, cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, and mustard to create this hearty meal. The process is straightforward: make the cheese sauce, mix it with cooked pasta, and air fry until golden and bubbling.
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Here’s how to make your own:
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Butter
- Plain flour
- Milk
- Mustard
- Cheddar cheese
- Breadcrumbs
Method
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the milk until just steaming. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, stir in the flour, and cook for one minute.
- Gradually whisk in the hot milk until smooth, bring to a gentle bubble, then cook for one more minute before removing from heat.
- Stir in most of the cheese and the mustard until the cheese melts completely.
- Mix the pasta and cheese sauce in a heatproof dish that fits your air fryer.
- Combine the remaining cheese with breadcrumbs and sprinkle evenly on top.
- Air fry at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is bubbling.
This air fryer macaroni cheese is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal fuss — perfect for any autumn evening.