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Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
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This Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it uses simple ingredients and the convenience of an Instant Pot to create tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Customizable and kid-friendly, this dish makes a delicious, fuss-free dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Cooking Liquids

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup warm milk or cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta: Add the elbow macaroni, water, and broth directly into the Instant Pot. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged for even cooking.
  2. Pressure cook the macaroni: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 4 minutes. This timing cooks the pasta perfectly without it becoming mushy.
  3. Quick release and drain: Carefully use the quick release method to release the steam. Check the pasta texture, and if excess water remains, drain it to achieve the right sauce consistency.
  4. Stir in butter and cheese: Add butter and shredded cheddar cheese to the hot pasta. Stir continuously until the butter and cheese have melted into a creamy, golden sauce.
  5. Add milk and seasoning: Pour in warm milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic or mustard powder. Mix until the sauce is smooth and irresistible.

Notes

  • Choose the right pasta shapes such as elbow macaroni or small pasta for even cooking and sauce coating.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • Stir cheese into the pasta off heat to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy.
  • Adjust liquid amounts to ensure pasta is fully cooked under pressure without drying out.
  • Let the mac and cheese rest a few minutes before serving to thicken the sauce and meld flavors.
  • Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, instant pot, easy dinner, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/easy-instant-pot-mac-and-cheese/