Air Fryer Mac and Cheese – Crispy Classic

• macaroni↗250 g
• whole milk↗300 ml
• butter↗30 g
• all-purpose flour↗30 g
• aged cheddar↗65 g

  grated

• English mustard↗1 tsp
• panko breadcrumbs↗30 g

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, drain and set aside.

2. 2

   Heat the milk in a microwave‑safe container or a small saucepan until steam appears. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, add the flour, stir until smooth and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, constantly whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. When the sauce boils, simmer for another minute, remove from heat, add almost all the grated cheddar (reserve a handful) and the mustard, stir until the cheese melts.

3. 3

   Transfer the macaroni to a heat‑proof dish that fits the air fryer and pour the cheese sauce over it. Stir lightly so the sauce coats the pasta evenly.

4. 4

   Combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining grated cheddar and sprinkle evenly over the macaroni. Cook in the air fryer at 180 °C for 15–20 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden and the pasta is browned.