Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is simple, creamy, cheesy, and delicious. Make this fast in your electric pressure cooker, and in one pot!
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is simple, creamy, cheesy, and delicious. Make this fast in your electric pressure cooker, and in one pot!
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup monterey jack cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 4 cups water or low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp seasoned salt ((optional but it adds a nice flavor))
- a few dashes of hot sauce ((optional))
- 16 oz pasta ((macaroni penne, shells, etc.))
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded (i prefer sharp cheddar)
- 1 cup milk ((or half and half or 1 can evaporated milk))
- Carbohydrate 0.1221416666691 g
- Cholesterol 20.3354166753873 mg
- Fat 7.76752083662326 g
- Fiber 0.0489999993642171 g
- Protein 0.163529166701144 g
- Saturated Fat 4.86342333541688 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (86g)
- Sodium 155.26746669003 mg
- Sugar 0.0731416673048832 g
- Trans Fat 0.543977500230306 g
- Calories 69 calories
Step-by-step
- Turn Instant Pot on Sauté mode by pressing the Sauté button.
- Add the water, butter, ground mustard, salt, and seasoned salt to the Instant Pot and bring to a simmer.
- Press the Cancel/Keep Warm Button to cancel the Sauté mode.
- Stir in the pasta and close the lid. Set the steam release knob to the Sealing position.
- Press the Manual (or Pressure Cook) button and use the + or - button to choose 4 minutes (or half of the time the pasta package directions recommends).
- When the cooking cycle ends, do a Quick Release of the pressure. Start slowly, using several small bursts of steam release, to make sure none of the sauce spews out with the steam (the butter usually helps keep the foam down). Then fully release the steam.
- When the pin in the lid drops, open the pot and give the contents a stir.
- Add the cheese, half at a time, and stir.
- Add the milk and stir until creamy and the cheese has all melted.
- Adjust salt to taste.
- Serve hot.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese: A Busy Woman's Dream
Let's be honest, ladies, life is hectic. Between work, family, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like climbing Mount Everest in stilettos. But what if I told you there's a way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, comforting bowl of mac and cheese without spending hours in the kitchen? Enter the Instant Pot – my new kitchen superhero.
I've always loved mac and cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food, a nostalgic trip back to childhood dinners and cozy nights in. But let's face it, the traditional stovetop method can be a bit of a production. Boiling the pasta, making the cheese sauce – it's a multi-step process that often leaves me feeling more stressed than satisfied. But the Instant Pot? It's a game-changer.
This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal prep time and cleanup. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, cooking the pasta perfectly while simultaneously creating a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce. The result is a dish that tastes restaurant-quality but is ready in a fraction of the time. I often make a double batch on Sundays, storing half for quick weeknight lunches or dinners. It’s a perfect meal prep solution for busy schedules.
Why This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe Works:
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup – a busy woman’s best friend!
- Speed and Efficiency: Ready in under 15 minutes (including prep time).
- Customizable: Easily adapt the cheeses to your preferences. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyere – the possibilities are endless!
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: No more mushy or undercooked pasta!
- Creamy, Cheesy Goodness: The ultimate comfort food, elevated.
Beyond the Basics:
While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to experiment! Add some cooked bacon or ham for extra protein and flavor. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a delightful crunch. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. You can even swap out the milk for cream for an extra luxurious mac and cheese experience.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality cheese – it makes a difference!
- Don't overcook the pasta. Four minutes is usually sufficient, but always check the package instructions.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or water to thin it out.
- Season to taste – salt and pepper are your friends.
This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to efficient cooking and delicious results. It's my go-to when I need a comforting, flavorful meal without sacrificing precious time. So ditch the complicated recipes and embrace the simplicity of the Instant Pot. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you. It truly allows me to enjoy the finer things in life and spend quality time with loved ones without sacrificing healthy and delightful food, a perfect balance!
Making this a weekly staple has completely transformed my weeknight dinners, eliminating the stress of meal planning and freeing up valuable time for the things that truly matter. I am certain this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese will become a household favourite for you, as well.
