Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Intensity: Easy
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked macaroni and set it aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color and has a nutty aroma.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, adjusting the seasonings to your taste.
- Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Optional: Sprinkle bread crumbs or crushed crackers over the top of the macaroni and cheese for a crispy topping.
- Place the dish in the preheated air fryer basket. Air fry the macaroni and cheese at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Once done, carefully remove the macaroni and cheese from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the air fryer macaroni and cheese hot as a comforting and satisfying meal or side dish.
Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and model of your air fryer. Keep an eye on the macaroni and cheese during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent over-browning.
Enjoy your creamy and cheesy air fryer macaroni and cheese!
