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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and quick comfort food that uses the Instant Pot to perfectly cook pasta and create a silky smooth cheese sauce. This recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or crowd-pleasing sides, combining convenience with deliciousness in one pot.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups milk or cream, warmed
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather the elbow macaroni, shredded sharp cheddar cheese (shred it yourself for best melting), butter, warm milk or cream, chicken broth or water, salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder. Measure all liquids and have cheese ready to streamline cooking.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the macaroni, chicken broth (or water), butter, salt, and optional mustard powder directly into the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once done, perform a quick pressure release immediately to avoid overcooking.
  3. Stir in Milk and Cheese: Open the pot carefully and stir in the warmed milk or cream followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir vigorously until the cheese fully melts and combines with the pasta, forming a creamy, smooth sauce.
  4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mac and cheese and add additional salt, pepper, or any seasonings to enhance the flavor to your liking.
  5. Serve Immediately: Serve the mac and cheese hot directly from the pot, or transfer to bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Stick to the 4-minute cooking time with quick release to avoid mushy pasta.
  • Shred your own cheese to prevent clumping caused by anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese.
  • Warm the milk or cream before adding to help maintain sauce temperature and texture.
  • Stir thoroughly after adding cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, mac and cheese, comfort food, quick dinner, creamy pasta, pressure cooker recipes, easy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/instant-pot-mac-and-cheese/