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air fryer mac and cheese

Simple Air Fryer Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese made in your air fryer—no boiling required! Easy enough for weeknights, delicious enough for holidays.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • - Air fryer-safe dish (6–7 inch round)
  • Mixing spoon
  • - Foil

Ingredients
  

  • - 1 cup elbow macaroni uncooked
  • - 1¼ cups half-and-half or whole milk
  • - 1 tbsp butter
  • - 1½ cups shredded cheddar divided
  • - 1 cup cubed Velveeta
  • - ½ tsp garlic powder
  • - ¼ tsp paprika
  • - Salt and pepper to taste
  • - Optional: 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

  • Preheat air fryer to 360°F for 3–5 minutes.
  • In an air fryer-safe dish, mix macaroni, half-and-half, butter, Velveeta, ¾ cup cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Cover with foil and cook for 20 minutes.
  • Stir well, top with remaining cheddar and breadcrumbs.
  • Cook uncovered for 5–7 more minutes.
  • Let rest 2 minutes and serve warm.

Notes

- Stir halfway through to check doneness
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt
- Pairs perfectly with BBQ, crispy veggies, or slaw
Keyword air fryer mac and cheese