The Instant Pot is a great tool that lots of families love for getting quick meal recipes on the table on busy nights. Some other great options are Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes, Pork Carnitas, and Pork and Beans. Mac and Cheese is one of those perfect go-to recipes for a quick lunch for the kids, a weeknight dinner, or even a quick side to whip up to go with pretty much anything. I mean, honestly, the comfort in noodles and melty cheese just hits the heart. Most of us moms grab those super cheap boxes of mac and cheese at the store that we can throw together in no time and at the same time cringe at the yellow powdered stuff they call cheese. But hey, it’s quick and nostalgic, so why not? But what if you could whip up your own recipe, with real cheese, have it taste better, and be just as quick. Well, grab your instant pot mama, because I’m about to show you just how this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe will change the game for you and this classic easy, comfort food.
Why this recipe is so awesome
I’ll be honest that I’m not one of those people who uses the Instant Pot for everything. In fact, my collection of IP recipes is on the small side because I’m pretty picky about how things are cooked and sometimes the results just don’t live up to the hype for me. It has selective uses for things like eggs, beans, rice, and large roasts, primarily. But that’s not the case with this deliciously creamy Instant Pot mac and cheese! It checks off all the important boxes for being an Instant Pot recipe that I find myself coming back to over and over again.
It cooks the pasta until al dente without making it mushy. It’s super quick and easy. Like my husband and kids can manage this recipe no problem. You don’t even have to drain the water off after cooking the pasta! Less dishes makes me happy.
What You’ll Need
The ingredients are pretty basic and you will have everything you need in your pantry or fridge. But there are a couple worth noting specifically.
Chicken Broth: While you could just use water (and I have definitely done it myself), using chicken broth just takes the flavor to a new level that is definitely worth a try! Hot Sauce: Totally optional, and I get that parents are going to worry about kids complaining about food being “spicy”. But it really just adds depth of flavor and doesn’t make actually make this mac & cheese taste spicy. My kids never even noticed. Cheese: You can really use any cheese you like and have on hand, but a good melty cheese, or combination of cheeses, is going to be your best bet. My favorites are sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese or Italian blend, and parmesan cheese.
How to Make Instant Pot Macaroni & Cheese
Recipe Tips
Mix it up! This is my most basic approach and the one I use most often, but you can make your Instant Pot mac and cheese a little extra by using other cheeses like gouda, provolone, monterey jack, colby jack, gruyere, and more. Storage and reheating: Keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash or two of milk to loosen it up when reheating. Add In’s: I like adding leftover pulled pork, chopped bacon, kielbasa sausage, or other protein when I have it on hand to make this a more substantial meal.
Delicious Dishes to Serve with Mac & Cheese
Oven Roasted Green Beans Spicy Honey Chicken Roast Beef Sliders Oven Roasted Cauliflower Instant Pot Homemade Apple Sauce BLT Sandwhich
Let me know what you thought with a comment and rating below. You can also take a picture and tag me on Instagram @houseofnasheats or share it on the Pinterest pin so I can see.
