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Creamy Instant Pot mac and cheese served in a bowl with cheese and herbs garnishes.

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Creamy and cheesy, this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pasta and sauce
  • 4 cups Water or Low Sodium Chicken Broth Choose broth for extra flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons Butter (unsalted) Adds richness to the sauce.
  • ¾ teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances the overall flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon Pepper Adds warmth without overwhelming.
  • ¾ teaspoon Garlic Powder Provides a savory aroma.
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground Mustard (optional) Adds a hint of tang.
  • A Few Dashes Hot Sauce (optional) Adds a subtle kick.
  • 16 oz Macaroni Pasta (or 1 lb, penne, shells, etc.) Classic pasta for this dish.
  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Creates that iconic cheese pull.
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack or Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully for creaminess.
  • ¼ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Adds a nutty finish.
  • ½ - 1 cup Milk (or half and half, evaporated milk) To achieve desired creaminess.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add the water or broth to the Instant Pot, then toss in the butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, ground mustard, and hot sauce. Stir together.
  2. Add the macaroni pasta into the pot and close the lid. Set the steam release knob to Sealing.
Cooking
  1. Press the Manual (or Pressure Cook) button and select 4 minutes.
  2. After cooking, perform a Controlled Quick Release of the pressure slowly.
  3. When pin drops, carefully open the pot and stir the pasta mixture, ladle out any excessive liquid if too watery.
Finishing
  1. Add the cheeses one cup at a time, stirring after each addition until melted.
  2. Pour in the milk and stir until creamy.
  3. Taste and adjust the salt as needed.
  4. If too saucy, cover the pot for a few minutes to absorb excess liquid.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the gooey texture.

Notes

For a creamier texture, use freshly shredded cheese. Experiment with different cheese combinations for a unique flavor. For added richness, mix in cream cheese.