Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
A delightful, creamy dish that brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite, made effortlessly in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni These small, curved pasta shapes provide the perfect bite and hold onto all that creamy cheese.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter This rich butter adds a silky texture to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing the natural flavors.
- 4 cups water Helps cook the pasta to perfection.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese Freshly shredded, it gives a bold flavor and gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup whole milk Vital for elevating the creamy consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the elbow pasta, butter, salt, and water into the Instant Pot. Do not stir the pasta!
Cooking
- Close the lid, select the 'manual' or 'pressure cook' setting, and set the cooking time to 4 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the timer goes off, carefully perform a quick release to release the steam and pressure.
- Switch the Instant Pot to 'sauté mode'. Add the freshly shredded cheddar cheese and whole milk, stirring continuously until well-combined and the cheese is melted.
Serving
- Remove the pot from heat and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
To make your Easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese even better, consider mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyere, adding cooked broccoli, bacon bits, or spicy jalapeños for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.