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Recipe
Baked Macaroni and Cheese in the Ninja Foodi Recipe
Published: April 1, 2024
Whipping up my baked macaroni and cheese in the Ninja Foodi is a breeze. Creamy, cheesy, with a golden crust, it's a comforting dish that never fails to impress!
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Who can resist the comforting allure of baked macaroni and cheese? This is my favorite go-to recipe, especially on those busy weeknights when you want something quick, savory, and satisfying. With my Ninja Foodi, it's become even simpler and quicker! So, get ready to cook along and discover how this humble classic can turn an ordinary evening into a cozy, heartwarming experience. Let's dive into the process and make some delicious magic happen.
Ingredients for Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Elbow macaroni: Pasta provides the base and texture for the dish, absorbing the cheesy sauce and adding a comforting bite.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into a gooey, flavorful sauce that coats the macaroni, providing richness and a classic cheesy taste.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth, velvety cheese sauce that binds all the ingredients together.
- Butter: Enhances the richness and flavor of the cheese sauce, contributing to a creamy and indulgent mac and cheese.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce, helping it adhere to the macaroni and create a luscious, creamy texture.
Fun Fact: Adding a touch of dijon mustard to the cheese sauce of this baked macaroni and cheese in the ninja foodi recipe can give it a subtle tangy flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
Tools Required
- Ninja Foodi: Combines functions of pressure cooker, air fryer, and oven for cooking and baking versatility.
- Baking dish: Essential for baking and serving the macaroni and cheese dish after preparation.
Common Questions About This Ninja Foodi Mac and Cheese Recipe
Serves: 6 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In the Ninja Foodi, melt the butter using the sauté function.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
- Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the Ninja Foodi at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Read more: How to Bake a Cake in the Ninja Foodi
Nutritional value:
Per Serving in Calories: 380 kcal | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Protein: 15 g | Total Fat: 22 g | Saturated Fat: 13 g | Trans Fat: 0.5 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 60 mg | Sodium: 450 mg | Dietary Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 3 g | Calcium: 350 mg | Potassium: 200 mg | Iron: 1.5 mg | Vitamin A: 500 µg | Vitamin C: 2 mg
Preparing and Storing Baked Macaroni and Cheese Ahead of Time
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese as directed but do not bake.
- Cover the dish with foil or a lid and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as instructed.
Freezing Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese but do not bake.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (180°C) until heated through.
