Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese - creamy, delicious and crazy good, homemade Mac and cheese doesn't get any easier than this!
How to Make the Best Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
If you’ve ever craved the ultimate comfort food but didn’t want to spend time hovering over a stovetop, this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is your answer. With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can have a bowl of incredibly creamy, cheesy pasta that rivals any restaurant version. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, cooking the pasta to perfect tenderness while you prep the simple cheese sauce.
The secret to this recipe’s incredible creaminess is the combination of evaporated milk and a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. The evaporated milk adds a silky richness without making the dish too heavy, while the pepper jack brings just a hint of warmth to balance the sharp cheddar. A touch of dijon mustard might seem unusual, but it’s a classic cheese sauce trick that enhances the cheesy flavor without tasting like mustard at all.
This mac and cheese is perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also impressive enough for potlucks and family gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings—Everything Bagel Spice adds a delicious savory crunch, while chili flakes or Sriracha give it a spicy kick that adults will love.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese - creamy, delicious and crazy good, homemade Mac and cheese doesn't get any easier than this!
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese
Optional Toppings
Instructions
Prepare the Mac and Cheese
- Set Instant Pot to Saute function.
- Add olive oil and shallot and saute until sizzling and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add water, salt and macaroni and give a good stir.
- Set Instant Pot to pressure cook, on high, for 4 minutes. Manually release.
- Stir the pasta - there will be a little water, this is OK. Stir in the butter, evaporated milk, and mustard.
- Stir in the cheese a cup at a time, until fully melted and incorporated. Taste, add more mustard for extra tanginess.
- As the macaroni and cheese sits, it will thicken up beautifully.
- Garnish with Everything Bagel Spice, chili flakes, or Sriracha if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute pepper jack cheese with mozzarella, gruyere, or other melty cheese.
- For a tangier flavor, add up to 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard.
- Adjust salt to taste - start with 2.5 teaspoons if you prefer less salty dishes.
