Name: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 26 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups macaroni noodles; 3 cups water; ½ tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dry mustard; ¼ tsp Seasoning salt; ¼ tsp pepper; 1 tbsp butter; 3 oz cream cheese; ¾ cup milk; 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this instant pot mac and cheese recipe, where creamy sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese blend perfectly with tender macaroni noodles for a deliciously satisfying meal. Quick, easy, and irresistibly cheesy, this dish brings a taste of homemade goodness to your table in no time.

Photos of Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Dry mustard and seasoning salt are specialty items that might require a trip to the supermarket. Additionally, cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese are essential for the creamy texture and rich flavor, so make sure to have them on hand.

Ingredients For Instant Pot Mac And Cheese

Macaroni noodles: Classic tubular pasta, perfect for absorbing the cheesy sauce.

Water: Used to cook the macaroni noodles in the instant pot.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor without the texture of fresh onions.

Dry mustard: Enhances the cheese flavor with a hint of tanginess.

Seasoning salt: A flavored salt that adds an extra layer of seasoning.

Pepper: Provides a mild spice that balances the creaminess.

Butter: Adds richness to the dish.

Cream cheese: Contributes to the creamy texture and slightly tangy taste.

Milk: Helps achieve the desired consistency and creamy base for the sauce.

Sharp cheddar cheese: Main cheese component providing rich, bold flavor.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and savory touch to the dish.

One reader, Kellsie Nieto says:

This instant pot mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer! The pasta is perfectly cooked, and the blend of cheeses creates a creamy, delicious sauce. Quick, easy, and absolutely satisfying. A new family favorite!

Kellsie Nieto

Mastering the Art of Instant Pot Mac and Cheese: Essential Techniques

How to use an Instant Pot: Explanation on setting the timer for high pressure and releasing the pressure safely. How to stir in cream cheese: Explanation on how to properly melt and blend cream cheese into the pasta. How to blend milk: Explanation on how to add milk slowly to achieve the desired consistency. How to stir in cheese: Explanation on how to properly incorporate cheddar and parmesan cheese into the pasta.

How To Make Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is a quick-prep meal of macaroni noodles, cheese, and seasonings! Just add them all in the Instant Pot and you’re done!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 6 minutes

Pressure Preheat Time: 10 minutes

Total: 26 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2 ½cupsmacaroni noodles,dry
3cupswater
½tsponion powder
1tspdry mustard
¼tspseasoning salt,or to taste
¼tsppepper
1tbspbutter
3ozcream cheese,approximately ⅓ cup
¾cupmilk,divided
2 ½cupssharp cheddar cheese,shredded
2tbspparmesan cheese,shredded

Instructions

Add dry macaroni noodles, water, onion powder, dry mustard, seasoning salt, pepper, and butter to the Instant Pot.
Set timer for 6 minutes on High pressure.
Release pressure once completed. Do not drain the water at the bottom.
Stir in the cream cheese to melt. Add the ¼ cup of milk slowly until blended.
Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining ½ cup of milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 999.63kcal
Fat: 52.75g
Saturated Fat: 29.63g
Trans Fat: 1.61g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.77g
Carbohydrates: 82.01g
Fiber: 3.44g
Sugar: 4.72g
Protein: 47.71g
Cholesterol: 154.02mg
Sodium: 940.90mg
Calcium: 981.56mg
Potassium: 386.43mg
Iron: 1.68mg
Vitamin A: 413.57µg
Vitamin C: 0.05mg

Elevate Your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with This Simple Technique

To achieve a creamier texture in your mac and cheese, ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the instant pot. This allows it to melt more smoothly and blend seamlessly with the cheddar and parmesan cheese.

Time-Saving Hacks for Making Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all macaroni noodles, cheese, and spices before starting to save time during cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese to cut down on prep time.

Room temperature dairy: Let the cream cheese and milk come to room temperature for easier blending.

Instant pot prep: Set up your instant pot with the necessary settings before adding ingredients to streamline the process.

Quick release method: Use the quick release method to release pressure faster and move on to the next steps without delay.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe

macaroni noodles - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta has a similar texture and will hold the cheese sauce well.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds extra flavor to the dish.
onion powder - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
dry mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor and can be used in a slightly smaller amount.
seasoning salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds a bit of garlic flavor along with the saltiness.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't add black specks to the dish.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides creaminess and a slight tang, making it a healthier option.
milk - Substitute with evaporated milk: Evaporated milk is richer and creamier, enhancing the texture of the mac and cheese.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gouda cheese: Gouda cheese melts well and has a rich, creamy flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with Romano cheese: Romano cheese has a similar texture and a slightly stronger flavor.

Elevate Your Mac and Cheese Game: Presentation Tips

Serve in individual ramekins: Portion the mac and cheese into small, elegant ramekins to give each guest their own serving. This adds a touch of sophistication and ensures a consistent presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley on top of each ramekin. The green color will contrast beautifully with the creamy cheese and add a fresh aroma.
Use a cheese crisp: Create a parmesan crisp by baking thin slices of parmesan cheese until golden and crispy. Place the crisp on top of the mac and cheese for an added texture and visual appeal.
Drizzle with truffle oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle a few drops of truffle oil over each portion. This luxurious touch will elevate the flavor profile and impress your guests.
Serve on a slate board: Arrange the ramekins on a sleek slate board or a dark-colored serving tray. The contrast between the dark tray and the creamy mac and cheese will make the dish stand out.
Add a side of microgreens: Place a small bundle of microgreens next to each ramekin. This not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh, slightly bitter counterpoint to the rich cheese.
Use a gold spoon: Serve the mac and cheese with a small, elegant gold spoon. This detail adds a touch of luxury and makes the dining experience feel special.
Top with a dusting of smoked paprika: Lightly dust the top of each ramekin with smoked paprika. This adds a subtle smoky flavor and a vibrant red hue, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Preserving Perfection: Storing and Freezing Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

To store leftover mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating refrigerated mac and cheese, add a splash of milk and stir well to restore its creamy consistency. Heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For freezing, portion the cooled mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen mac and cheese, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Transfer the thawed mac and cheese to a microwave-safe bowl, add a little milk, and stir well. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through and creamy.
Alternatively, you can reheat frozen mac and cheese in a saucepan on the stovetop. Add a small amount of milk to the pan and stir frequently over low heat until the mac and cheese is heated through and reaches your desired consistency.
If the reheated mac and cheese seems a bit dry or thick, add more milk gradually until you achieve the perfect creamy texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Mac and Cheese

Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave: place the desired amount of leftover mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of milk to help maintain the creamy texture. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
Reheat the mac and cheese on the stovetop: transfer the leftover mac and cheese to a saucepan. Add a splash of milk and stir gently over low heat. Continue stirring until the mac and cheese is heated through and the desired consistency is reached. If the mixture becomes too thick, add more milk as needed.
Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of milk and stir gently to combine. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly, if desired.
Reheat the mac and cheese in the air fryer: preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover mac and cheese in an air fryer-safe dish. Add a splash of milk and stir gently to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through and the top is slightly crispy.
Reheat individual portions of mac and cheese in the microwave: place a single serving of leftover mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of milk and stir gently. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.

Surprising Facts About Mac and Cheese You Didn't Know

A random fact about this mac and cheese recipe is that using an Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional stovetop methods. The pressure cooking process helps the macaroni noodles cook quickly and evenly, while also allowing the cheese to melt smoothly into a creamy sauce.

Budget-Friendly Comfort: Is Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Economical?

This instant pot mac and cheese recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are basic pantry staples and affordable dairy products. The bulk of the cost comes from the cheddar cheese and cream cheese, but even these are relatively inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Healthy or Unhealthy?

The instant pot mac and cheese recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on high-fat ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, which can contribute to high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
The macaroni noodles are likely made from refined white flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
The recipe lacks any vegetables or lean protein sources, making it an unbalanced meal on its own.

However, with a few tweaks, this comforting dish can be made more nutritious without sacrificing flavor:

Swap out half of the macaroni noodles for a whole grain variety or even cauliflower florets to increase fiber and nutrient content.
Reduce the amount of cheese used and opt for lower-fat varieties like part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar.
Incorporate vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or spinach into the mix to boost the vitamin and mineral profile of the dish.
Consider using unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk instead of whole milk to cut down on calories and saturated fat.
Serve the mac and cheese as a side dish alongside a lean protein source and a colorful salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Editor's Take on This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe

This instant pot mac and cheese recipe is a delightful blend of convenience and rich flavors. The use of sharp cheddar and parmesan provides a robust, cheesy depth, while the cream cheese adds a velvety texture. The inclusion of onion powder and dry mustard introduces subtle complexity, enhancing the overall taste. Cooking the pasta directly in the pot with the seasonings ensures maximum flavor absorption. This method is efficient and perfect for a quick, comforting meal. However, for an extra touch, consider adding a breadcrumb topping and broiling briefly for a crispy finish.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful contrast to the creamy richness of your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese.

Garlic Butter Shrimp: Succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. The savory, buttery flavors will perfectly complement the cheesy goodness of your main course, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Caprese Salad: A refreshing Caprese salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of balsamic vinegar. This vibrant salad will add a burst of freshness to your meal.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a sweet and sticky honey coating. The natural sweetness of the carrots will provide a delightful contrast to the savory mac and cheese, making every bite a delightful experience.

Tomato Basil Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of tomato basil soup with a rich, velvety texture. The tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil will enhance the flavors of your mac and cheese, making it a perfect pairing for a cozy meal.

Beyond Mac and Cheese: Similar Instant Pot Recipes to Try

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this rich and velvety soup. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a comforting dish that's perfect for any season.

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Spice up your appetizer game with these irresistible jalapeño poppers. Filled with a creamy cheese mixture and wrapped in crispy bacon, they're a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in this classic Italian dish featuring tender chicken and pasta smothered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. It's a hearty meal that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Elevate your side dish game with these crispy Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection and tossed in a savory garlic and Parmesan cheese blend. A delicious way to enjoy your vegetables.

Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with this comforting dessert. The combination of apples and cinnamon in a warm, custardy bread pudding is simply irresistible.

Appetizers and Desserts: Completing Your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. The filling can be a delightful mix of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy and flavorful bite. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. These savory morsels are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. Begin with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic for an aromatic base. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil. A dash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy twist, while a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors. This appetizer is a refreshing and light start to any meal, bursting with Mediterranean goodness.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, gooey core that oozes out as you cut into it, creating a delightful contrast with the slightly crisp exterior. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. For an added touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or garnish with fresh berries. This dessert is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, offering a luxurious end to any meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with the tangy and sweet flavors of a Lemon Meringue Pie. The zesty lemon filling provides a refreshing burst of citrus, perfectly complemented by the light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery, flaky crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. This classic dessert is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, bringing a touch of sunshine to your table. For an extra twist, consider adding a hint of vanilla to the meringue or a layer of fresh berries beneath the lemon filling.

Why trust this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe:

This instant pot mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients like macaroni noodles, sharp cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, it delivers rich, creamy comfort in just minutes. The instant pot ensures perfectly cooked pasta every time, while the blend of seasonings adds depth of flavor. Trust this recipe for its ease, speed, and delicious results that will satisfy the whole family.

Want to share your own favorite mac and cheese recipe or discuss tips for making the perfect Instant Pot Mac and Cheese? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any short pasta like penne, shells, or rotini. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Just substitute the macaroni noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Again, you might need to adjust the cooking time a bit.

What if I don't have dry mustard?

No worries! You can use a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or even yellow mustard as a substitute. It will still give a nice tangy flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses to your liking. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a unique twist.

How can I make this recipe creamier?

If you want it extra creamy, you can add a bit more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream. Just adjust the milk accordingly to get the consistency you like.