Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen perfecting the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese?
Are you looking for a hassle-free way to satisfy your cravings for this classic comfort food?
Look no further!
In this blog post, we are going to share with you our recipe for instant pot mac and cheese that will change the way you make this beloved dish forever.
No more standing over a hot stove stirring and monitoring the pasta’s cooking time – with just one pot and minimal effort, you can have homemade mac and cheese ready in minutes.
Get ready to upgrade your comfort food game with this mouthwatering recipe!
The Magic Of Instant Pot To Cook Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese, a quintessential comfort food, has captured hearts around the world with its creamy, cheesy essence and soft, comforting pasta.
The Instant Pot is a multi-functional pressure cooker that has taken the cooking world by storm.
It cooks food faster than conventional methods and retains more nutrients, making it perfect for busy individuals or families.
The high-pressure cooking method not only accelerates the cooking process but also locks in moisture, ensuring each noodle is perfectly cooked and enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce.
The result is an irresistible, gooey mac and cheese that’s not only flavorful but also has a comforting, homely appeal, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, get-togethers, or any time you need a warm cheese hug.
Now imagine having mac and cheese on your dinner table in less than 20 minutes with minimal cleanup – that’s the magic of using an Instant Pot for this dish!
Ingredients Of Mac and Cheese
Before we dive into the cooking process, you’ll need to gather your ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need for your next comfort food cravings:
1. Elbow Macaroni: this is a classic choice for mac and cheese, but you can also use shells, cavatappi, or any other pasta shape you prefer.
2. Chicken broth: for added flavor and moisture adjustment. You can also use vegetable broth if you’re vegetarian.
3. Butter: to make a roux, which is the base of the cheese sauce.
4. Milk: whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can substitute it with low-fat milk or even almond milk.
5. Cheese: this recipe uses a combination of Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese for the perfect balance of flavors.
6. Seasoning: to make the dish more attractive, in this recipe, we will use salt, pepper, hot pepper sauce, and garlic powder.
This instant pot mac and cheese recipe calls for simple, pantry staples that come together to create a dish bursting with cheesy goodness.
How To Make Instant Pot Mac and Cheese?
To transform these ingredients into the ultimate comfort food, follow these simple steps.
This hassle-free method will ensure you achieve creamy, dreamy mac and cheese every time.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients In The Pot
Start by adding the elbow macaroni, chicken broth, salt, pepper, hot pepper sauce, garlic powder, and butter into your Instant Pot.
Stir to ensure the macaroni is well-coated and submerged in the broth.
Step 2: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid of your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook for 5 minutes on manual function, high pressure.
It will take a few minutes for the pot to come up to pressure before the cooking begins.
Step 3: Quick Release
Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release to vent the steam.
Be cautious of the hot steam as you vent the pot.
Step 4: Add Dairy and Cheeses
Open the lid and add the milk, cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese to the pot.
Be sure to add small handfuls at a time and stir well then add more, do not add all the cheese at once.
Stir well until all the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season to taste.
Adjust the seasonings to your taste and stir well to combine.
Serve hot for a comforting, satisfying dish.
This method ensures a rich, creamy texture and a depth of flavor that makes instant pot mac and cheese an irresistible dish that you will want to make again and again.
Tips For Delicious Mac and Cheese
To elevate your instant pot mac and cheese to the next level, consider incorporating these pro tips that ensure every bite is as delicious as it can be.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of cheese significantly affects the flavor of your mac and cheese. Opt for high-quality, freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce.
2. Do Not Overcook Pasta: To avoid mushy mac and cheese, ensure you set the Instant Pot to the recommended cooking time. The pasta continues to cook slightly in the cheese sauce, so a perfectly al dente texture from the start is key.
3. Stir Frequently After Adding Cheese: Once you add the cheese to the pot, stir the mixture frequently to prevent any cheese from sticking to the bottom and ensuring an evenly creamy sauce.
4. Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are classic choices, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, fontina, or smoked cheeses can add an interesting depth of flavor.
5. Add Toppings for Texture: For an added crunch and flavor contrast, consider topping your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs toasted in butter, crispy bacon bits, or fresh herbs before serving.
6. Adjust the Liquid: Depending on your preference for the sauce’s thickness, you may want to add a little extra milk or broth after cooking. Start with a small amount and increase until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Incorporate Vegetables or Protein: Make your mac and cheese a more rounded meal by stirring in cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas, or adding protein such as cooked chicken or bacon.
By following these tips, you’re not just making mac and cheese; you’re crafting a dish that’s rich in flavor, texture, and love – a surefire way to comfort food bliss.
What To Serve With Mac and Cheese?
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a stand-alone meal or accompanied by other dishes.
Here are some ideas for what to serve with your delicious instant pot mac and cheese:
1. Protein: Top your mac and cheese with cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for added protein.
2. Vegetables: Serve a side of roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes for a balanced meal.
3. Salad: Pair your mac and cheese with a fresh salad to add some greens to the meal.
4. Bread: Serve garlic bread, dinner rolls, or crusty bread on the side for dipping into the cheesy sauce.
However you decide to serve it, instant pot mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleasing, comforting dish that never goes out of style.
FAQs About Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
1. Can You Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely!
You can add your favorite vegetables or protein to make the dish more well-rounded.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Just be sure to adjust the recipe accordingly and keep an eye on cooking times.
2. How To Store An Instant Pot Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to revive creaminess.
Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 3 months and defrost it before reheating.
3. Can You Make It Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegetarian by replacing the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omitting any added protein.
It’s a versatile dish that can cater to various dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a comforting side dish, instant pot mac and cheese is the answer.
By following the step-by-step instructions and incorporating the pro tips provided, you can elevate this classic meal into a gourmet experience.
Whether you prefer the traditional flavors or like to experiment with different cheeses and add-ins, this method ensures a perfect batch every time.
Enjoy your mac and cheese as a hearty main dish or a satisfying side, knowing you’ve mastered the art of a beloved comfort food with a modern twist.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness that is instant pot mac and cheese!
Instant Pot Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 16 oz of elbow macaroni
- 4 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of hot pepper sauce
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of pepper
- 2 tbsp of butter
- 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 - 1 cup of milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Add macaroni, chicken broth, garlic powder, hot pepper sauce, butter, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Select the manual function, high-pressure cook, and set the timer for 5 minutes.
- After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and add butter, stirring until melted.
- Turn on the sauté function and add cheese gradually, stirring constantly until fully incorporated and melted.
- Stir in milk or heavy cream until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve hot and enjoy!