Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Name: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups water; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love making macaroni and cheese in my Instant Pot! It’s such a game changer, bringing together creamy cheese and pasta in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. I was pleasantly surprised at how perfectly the pasta cooked while absorbing all the rich flavors from the cheese sauce. Each bite is a delightful burst of cheesiness that’s utterly comforting. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, making it a go-to favorite on busy weeknights when I want something quick and delicious.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-30T18:58:27.788Z

When I first experimented with making mac and cheese in an Instant Pot, I was amazed at how creamy and smooth the cheese sauce turned out. It takes just 10 minutes of cooking time, and the pressure cooking allows the pasta to soak up all that cheese goodness. I found that using a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella gives the dish a rich depth of flavor that everyone loves.

One of my favorite tips is to add a sprinkle of garlic powder and a dash of mustard powder to elevate the cheese sauce. This little trick transforms ordinary mac and cheese into something truly memorable! Now, every time I make this dish, I find it disappearing from the table faster than I can serve it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich cheese sauce that coats every piece of pasta
Quick and easy: perfect for busy weekdays
No need to boil water separately

Perfect Pasta Texture

When making Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, achieving the right pasta texture is crucial to the dish's overall quality. The cooking time of 5 minutes under high pressure is ideal for elbow macaroni, resulting in perfectly tender pasta that maintains its shape. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider reducing the cooking time by one minute, though keep in mind that the pasta will continue to cook slightly during the pressure release.

It's also important to stir the macaroni well during the initial cooking phase. This prevents the pasta from clumping together and ensures even cooking. Some users find that adding a bit of oil to the water helps further minimize sticking and enhances the smoothness of the final dish.

Cheesy Flavor Enhancements

The choice of cheese plays a significant role in the richness and flavor profile of your mac and cheese. Sharp cheddar provides a strong, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of mozzarella, while adding depth to the dish. For an even bolder taste, you could substitute some of the cheddar with pepper jack cheese, which will infuse a hint of spice. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a milder flavor, consider using gouda or Monterey jack instead.

In addition to the cheese selection, the garlic and mustard powders contribute essential flavors, balancing the creaminess with a touch of zest. If you want to experiment further, adding a pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Just remember to taste as you mix in the seasonings to achieve your desired flavor balance.

Storing and Reheating

One of the best aspects of Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is its storage capability. Once cooked, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. To prevent the pasta from drying out, consider adding a splash of milk to the container before sealing it; this will help retain moisture during storage.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is simple. You can microwave the mac and cheese for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. For a stovetop method, place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little milk to restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently and watch closely to avoid burning. With these techniques, you can enjoy comforting mac and cheese even days after first preparing it.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese:

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups water
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon mustard powder

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can begin the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Instant Pot Mac and Cheese:

Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni, water, and salt to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid, set the vent to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.

Release Pressure

Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the vent to venting.

Make the Cheese Sauce

Open the lid and stir in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, garlic powder, and mustard powder until melted and creamy.

Serve

Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Enjoy your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with your favorite toppings, like breadcrumbs or extra cheese!

Pro Tips

For a bit of extra flavor, you can add cooked bacon or some sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the mix before serving.

Variations to Consider

If you’re looking to add variety to your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, consider incorporating vegetables. Spinach, broccoli, or peas can be stirred in at the same time as the cheese for added nutrition and flavor. These veggies will soften from the heat without compromising the dish's creamy texture.

For a protein boost, shredded chicken or cooked bacon can be mixed in for a heartier meal. Add these ingredients after releasing the pressure and stir them in just before serving, ensuring they heat through nicely in the rich, cheesy sauce.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, you may encounter that the pasta has stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot. This could indicate that the macaroni wasn’t stirred adequately before cooking or that the water wasn’t enough. If this happens, try an extra half cup of water next time or add a splash of oil to the cooking water to create a non-stick effect.

If upon opening the pot you find that the mac and cheese seems too thick, simply stir in a bit more milk to achieve the creaminess you desire. Heating on the stovetop after the pressure cooking can also help if you find the overall texture too stiff, allowing for adjustments before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Just be sure to follow the cooking time specified for gluten-free pasta.

→ What type of cheese works best?

A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to freeze the mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly after reheating. It’s best to reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.