🧀 Air Fryer Mac and Cheese (Amelia-Style)
Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly golden on top—this air fryer mac and cheese gives you that baked comfort-food feel without turning on the oven. It’s rich on the inside with a lightly crisp, bubbly cheese layer on top. Quick, satisfying, and ideal for small batches.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for meltiness)
- ½ cup milk (skim or low-fat for lighter version)
- ¼ cup light cream cheese or reduced-fat cream cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Optional topping: 2 tbsp breadcrumbs or extra cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix milk, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine
Add cooked pasta and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
4. Assemble
Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
Top with remaining cheese (and breadcrumbs if using).
5. Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 180°C / 350°F.
Cook for 8–10 minutes until hot, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
6. Serve
Let sit for 2–3 minutes before serving—it thickens as it cools.
💡 Tips
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the air fryer
- Stir halfway if you want it extra creamy throughout
- Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it smooth
🥗 Lighter / Weight Watchers Tips
- Use low-fat cheese and milk
- Skip breadcrumbs to reduce points
- Control portion size—this dish is rich
❓ Q&A
Can I use uncooked pasta?
No—you must cook the pasta first for proper texture.
Why is my mac and cheese dry?
It may need more milk or was cooked too long.
Can I add protein?
Yes—try shredded chicken, turkey bacon, or lean ground beef.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes—assemble and refrigerate, then air fry when ready.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Air fry at 160–170°C (320–340°F) for 3–5 minutes with a splash of milk.
⭐ Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and easy
- Creamy + crispy combo
- Perfect small-batch comfort food
- Customizable.