Instant Pot Mac & Cheese: All Your Q's Answered

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Lower calorie option or more budget-friendly.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole grain pasta

💰Cheaper: any pasta shape

More nutritious or versatile.

Hit the sauté button on the Instant Pot.

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the pot.

Add 4 cups of chicken broth to the melted butter.

Stir in 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Whisk to combine.

Add 4 cups (1 pound) of macaroni to the pot, ensuring all pasta is covered.

Put the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to sealing.

Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes (or 4 minutes for firmer pasta).

Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.

Stir the pasta and add 1/2 to 1 cup of milk (or heavy cream) as desired.

Add the medium sharp cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese in handfuls, stirring as you go to prevent clumping.

Add 3 ounces of cream cheese and stir until melted.

Taste and adjust cheese as desired, adding more sharp cheese if needed.

Serve immediately, optionally adding proteins like chicken, tuna, or bacon.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens