Instant Pot Mac n Cheese
This creamy, cozy Instant Pot Mac n Cheese comes together fast using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. With just a few minutes of pressure cooking, you’ll have a decadent, cheesy, from-scratch dinner or side dish perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty farm-style meal.
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or other electric pressure cooker)
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni uncooked
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella optional for creaminess
- Optional: cooked bacon bits shredded rotisserie chicken, or lobster for mix-ins
- Optional: garlic powder or ground mustard for flavor depth
Instructions
- Pour uncooked elbow macaroni into the Instant Pot. Add water, salt, and butter.
- Secure lid, set valve to sealing, and cook on Manual or High Pressure for 4 minutes.
- When the timer beeps, quickly release the pressure. Stir the pasta—there may be a little starchy water left.
- Stir in evaporated milk and shredded cheeses until melted and creamy. If using any seasonings or mix-ins, add them here.
- Serve right away for the best texture. Add more milk if it thickens while sitting.
Notes
- Cheese Tip: For the best melt and flavor, shred cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties.
- Mix-In Ideas: To make it a complete meal, stir in leftover chicken, pulled pork, or vegetables like steamed broccoli.
- Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or Dijon mustard to enhance the richness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
- Kids Love It: This recipe is mild, creamy, and kid-approved—great for picky eaters.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Instant Pot Mac n Cheese
Amount per Serving
Calories
497
% Daily Value*
Fat
20
g
31
%
Saturated Fat
11
g
69
%
Trans Fat
0.2
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
5
g
Cholesterol
55
mg
18
%
Sodium
735
mg
32
%
Potassium
206
mg
6
%
Carbohydrates
58
g
19
%
Fiber
2
g
8
%
Sugar
2
g
2
%
Protein
21
g
42
%
Vitamin A
557
IU
11
%
Calcium
335
mg
34
%
Iron
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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