Description

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe is a quick and creamy comfort food favorite. Using the Instant Pot allows for perfectly cooked elbow macaroni infused with garlic and mustard powder for subtle depth of flavor. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese and half & half creates a rich, cheesy sauce that comes together in just minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or cozy meal anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Ingredients

16 oz. elbow macaroni
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
½ tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. mustard powder
½ tsp. salt
½ cup half & half
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Add the elbow macaroni, chicken or vegetable broth, unsalted butter, garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt into the Instant Pot in that order. This layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Seal the Instant Pot: Close and lock the pressure cooker lid securely and make sure the pressure release valve is in the sealed position to build pressure.
Pressure Cook Pasta: Set the Instant Pot to manual mode on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 2 minutes before carefully performing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
Add Dairy Ingredients: Open the lid and stir in the half & half and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. The residual heat will melt the cheese and create a luscious sauce.
Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately while warm and creamy for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor; mild cheddar can be used but will result in a less pronounced cheesy taste.
Do not overcook the pasta; the 4-minute cooking time is optimal in the Instant Pot for al dente macaroni.
To make it creamier, add an extra ¼ cup half & half or a splash of milk if desired.
Quick release pressure carefully to avoid splattering.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Instant Pot
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, Easy Mac and Cheese, Pressure Cooker Pasta, Quick Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food