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Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy Homemade Comfort Food

Instant Pot mac and cheese - featured image

A quick and easy creamy mac and cheese made in the Instant Pot using simple pantry staples, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Paprika or cayenne pepper for heat or smoked flavor

Instructions

  1. Measure out 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of elbow macaroni. Combine 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth with 2 cups whole milk in a liquid measuring cup.
  2. Pour the macaroni into the Instant Pot insert. Add the broth and milk mixture, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
  4. Carefully do a quick release by moving the valve to venting once cooking is done.
  5. Open the lid and immediately stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Add more milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or cayenne pepper.
  7. Optional: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results. Quick release pressure to avoid overcooked pasta. Stir cheese in off heat to prevent curdling. Adjust seasoning carefully as broth and cheese add saltiness. For gluten-free, substitute pasta and flour accordingly. Optional broil step adds a crunchy topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, mac and cheese, creamy, comfort food, quick dinner, easy recipe, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, pressure cooker