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air fryer mac and cheese

Simple Air Fryer Mac and Cheese

A creamy, golden mac and cheese made entirely in the air fryer—no boiling required! Perfectly crisp top with soft cheesy pasta underneath.
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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 (6 qt or larger)
  • - Mixing bowl
  • - Baking dish (air fryer-safe)
  • - Spoon/spatula

Ingredients
  

  • - 1½ cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • - 1½ cups half-and-half
  • - 8 oz Velveeta cubed
  • - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar divided
  • - 2 tbsp butter
  • - ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • - ¼ tsp onion powder
  • - ¼ tsp black pepper
  • - Pinch of salt
  • - Pinch of cayenne optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat air fryer to 360°F for 10 minutes.
  • Mix pasta, half-and-half, Velveeta, 1 cup cheddar, butter, and seasonings in a bowl.
  • Pour into greased air fryer-safe baking dish.
  • Air fry for 15–18 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
  • Top with remaining cheddar, air fry 2–3 minutes more.
  • Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

- Use block cheese for best results
- Add breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- Store leftovers in fridge or freeze for up to 3 months
Keyword air fryer mac and cheese