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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 is the ultimate comfort food, quick to prepare and incredibly customizable.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Can swap with gluten-free pasta
  • 2 cups Water or Broth Broth adds depth of flavor
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can use margarine or vegan butter
  • 1 cup Milk or Cream Use almond milk or coconut cream for dairy-free
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheese (e.g., sharp cheddar) Blend with mozzarella or gouda for variations
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste
Optional Toppings
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley For garnish
  • 1/4 cup Crispy Bacon Crumbs For added crunch
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Breadcrumbs For texture

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Add elbow macaroni to the Instant Pot, submerged with enough water or broth to cover the pasta. Lock lid and seal the vent. Set to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, then perform a quick release.
  2. Open the lid and stir in the butter until melted. Gradually add milk or cream while stirring, then fold in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust thickness with more milk as needed.
  3. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly for an even flavor distribution.
  4. Serve hot and top with fresh parsley, crispy bacon crumbs, or toasted breadcrumbs. Broil for a bubbly, golden crust if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, follow cooking times precisely to avoid mushy pasta. Add cheese while pasta is warm for a smooth sauce. Reheat leftovers with milk to restore creaminess.

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