Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy comfort food that is quick and easy to make, look no further than this Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese! This dish is not only a childhood favorite but also a fantastic option for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and the help of your Instant Pot, you can whip up a deliciously rich and satisfying meal in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes and dietary preferences.

Top Reasons to Make Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

1. Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy your mac and cheese in under 30 minutes.
2. Minimal Cleanup: Cook everything in one pot, making it a breeze to clean up after your meal.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
4. Perfectly Creamy: The pressure cooking method ensures that your pasta is cooked to perfection, resulting in a creamy texture that is hard to resist.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 lb shell pasta
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Sprinkle of bread crumbs (optional)

Equipment & Tools

• Instant Pot: The star of the show for this recipe, perfect for quick meals.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
• Wooden Spoon: To stir and combine the ingredients.
• Serving Spoon: For dishing out the mac and cheese.

The Method for Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot

Start by adding the 4 cups of broth into the Instant Pot. Ensure that the pot is set to the “Sauté” mode and allow the broth to heat up slightly.

Step 2: Add the Pasta

Once the broth is warm, add the 1 lb of shell pasta to the pot. Stir it well to ensure that the pasta is fully submerged in the broth.

Step 3: Seal and Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Use the manual setting to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the time is up, carefully perform a quick release to let out the steam.

Step 4: Mix in the Dairy

After releasing the pressure, open the lid and stir in 3 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of Monterey jack cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and everything is well combined.

Step 5: Season It Up

Add in the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of cracked pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

If desired, sprinkle a bit of bread crumbs on top for some added crunch. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Add shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy twist. Check out this Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese recipe for inspiration!
• Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Toss in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
• Spicy Jalapeño Mac: Stir in diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Truffle Mac and Cheese: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving for a decadent touch.

Testing Timeline

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 minutes
• Pressure Release: 5 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes

Save It for Later

This Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep!

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk for creaminess.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Substitute regular shell pasta with gluten-free shell pasta, and follow the same cooking instructions. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as gluten-free pasta may vary.

What can I do if my mac and cheese is too thick?

If you find your mac and cheese is too thick after cooking, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat in the Instant Pot or on the stove.

How do I make my mac and cheese extra cheesy?

For an even cheesier dish, feel free to mix in additional cheeses like gouda or mozzarella. You can also top it with cheese before putting it under the broiler for a few minutes to create a bubbly crust.

Serve with These

• Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe
• Creamy Baked Mac And Gouda
• Garlic bread
• Simple green salad
• Grilled vegetables

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the details for this Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to make everyone happy. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the satisfaction of preparing a meal that is both comforting and delicious!