Golden Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Crispy Perfection
Get perfectly crispy air fryer mac and cheese with a crunchy topping. This Crispy Air Fryer Sides recipe is a weeknight game-changer for creamy comfort food.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked al dente
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp
- 0.5 cup whole milk or cream
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs for crispy topping
- 2 tbsp butter melted
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an air fryer-safe dish or the fryer basket, spreading it into an even layer.
- In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Air fry at 380°F for 12-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the edges are bubbling.
- Let it cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the crispy topping to set properly.