Description
This Indulgent Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, cheesy comfort food classic made effortlessly in just 10 minutes. Using the Instant Pot, tender elbow macaroni is cooked perfectly before being combined with sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and savory seasonings to create a smooth, creamy sauce that melts in your mouth. Enjoy a warm, satisfying meal in minimal time, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a deliciously indulgent mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Cooking Base
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tablespoon Butter
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Milk (preferably whole)
- 1/2 cup Cream Cheese (softened)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients including pasta, water, butter, cheeses, milk, and seasonings to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Cook Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni, water, and butter to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook at high pressure for 4 minutes to perfectly cook the pasta.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking cycle finishes, carefully perform a quick release to let out the steam, then open the lid cautiously to avoid burns.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the milk, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.
- Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately, optionally garnished with extra shredded cheese or your favorite toppings for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with lower-fat milk if preferred.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- For an extra cheesy dish, add more sharp cheddar or sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.
- Be cautious during the quick release to avoid steam burns.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger groups without altering cooking time.
