Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups dry macaroni noodles
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- or to taste1/4 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 ounces cream cheese
approx. ⅓ cup
- 3/4 cup milk
divided
- 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
shredded
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
shredded
Directions
- 1
Add dry macaroni noodles, water, onion powder, dry mustard, seasoning salt, pepper and butter to the instant pot.
- 2
Set timer for 6 minutes on high pressure.
- 3
Release pressure once completed, there will be water in the bottom – do not drain.
- 4
Stir in the cream cheese to melt. Add the ¼ cup milk slowly until blended.
- 5
Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining ½ cup milk until the desired consistency is reached. You may not need the entire amount of milk.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 263 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food without spending all day in the kitchen? This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, satisfying meal in a fraction of the time, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. You'll love how effortlessly the Instant Pot transforms simple ingredients into a dish that tastes like it simmered for hours.
The magic of this recipe lies in the Instant Pot's ability to cook pasta quickly and evenly, creating a naturally velvety sauce. The combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese melts into an incredibly smooth, decadent base, while a hint of dry mustard and onion powder elevates the savory profile, providing that irresistible depth of flavor typically found in classic stovetop versions.
What you'll experience is a truly luxurious mac and cheese. The macaroni noodles are perfectly tender, coated in a luscious, thick cheese sauce that’s bursting with a savory tang from the sharp cheddar and a delightful richness from the cream cheese. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to go back for a second (or third) spoonful, offering a comforting warmth with every bite. The addition of seasoning salt and pepper ensures every spoonful is perfectly balanced.
Customization & Variations
Want to make it your own? While sharp cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for different flavor notes. You can also adjust the richness by using whole milk or a lower-fat alternative, though whole milk will yield the creamiest result. For an extra kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be stirred in with the other seasonings.
This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is the quintessential family-friendly meal, ideal for casual gatherings or simply enjoying a hearty, satisfying dinner at home. It stands wonderfully on its own as a main course or pairs perfectly with a simple green salad.