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Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

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A quick and easy homemade comfort food recipe that delivers creamy, cheesy mac and cheese made perfectly in the Instant Pot in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (8 oz) dry elbow macaroni
  • 2 ½ cups (600 ml) water
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz)
  • 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese (optional)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: paprika or smoked paprika
  • Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Add 2 cups dry elbow macaroni and 2 ½ cups water to the Instant Pot. Stir to distribute pasta evenly.
  2. Close the lid, seal the valve, and set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 4 minutes.
  3. Quick release the pressure carefully when cooking time ends. Open the lid once pressure is fully released.
  4. Drain excess water if needed, leaving a splash for creaminess.
  5. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup cubed Velveeta (optional), and 4 oz softened cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add 2 tablespoons softened butter and 1 cup whole milk. Stir to combine into a creamy sauce.
  7. Season with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir well.
  8. Use the ‘Sauté’ function on low for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to thicken the sauce slightly.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more milk if extra creaminess is desired.
  10. Serve immediately. For a crispy top, broil in an oven-safe dish for 3-5 minutes with extra cheese or breadcrumbs.

Notes

Use quick release to prevent overcooking pasta. Soften cream cheese before adding for smooth texture. Stir constantly when sautéing to avoid burning. Add warm milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/creamy-instant-pot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/