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–+ servings
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Indulgent Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese in Minutes

This Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a warm, comforting dish in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute with shells or rotini.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Water or Broth Broth adds a richer flavor.
  • 2 Tbsp Butter Olive oil can be used for a lighter taste.
  • 1 cup Milk or Cream Consider dairy-free milk for a vegan version.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheese Mix different cheeses like Cheddar, Mozzarella, or Gouda.
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
Optional Toppings
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley For added freshness.
  • 1 cup Bacon Crumbs For a smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Broil for a golden crust.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Add elbow macaroni to the Instant Pot and pour in enough water or broth to cover the pasta by about an inch. Close the lid securely.
  2. Set your Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for half the time specified on the pasta package—around 4 minutes.
  3. Carefully perform a quick release by using the pressure valve to let steam escape. Stir the pasta gently for an even texture.
  4. Immediately add butter to the cooked pasta, stirring until it melts seamlessly.
  5. Slowly pour in milk or cream while stirring continuously, creating a velvety sauce.
  6. Gradually sprinkle in your shredded cheeses, combining them into the mixture one handful at a time.
  7. Once the cheese is fully integrated, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper.
  8. Spoon your indulgent Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese into bowls and serve hot, optionally topping with fresh parsley, bacon crumbs, or breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, cook pasta just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture. Allow mac and cheese to cool before storing to maintain creaminess.

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