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Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy 8 Minute Dinner

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A quick and creamy mac and cheese made in the Instant Pot in just 8 minutes, perfect for busy nights and comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 1/4 cups or 225 grams)
  • 2 cups water (480 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 28 grams), softened
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml), can substitute 2% or dairy-free milk like oat or almond
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces or 225 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 4 ounces or 115 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Measure and prep: shred cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and set aside separately. Measure elbow macaroni, water, salt, and butter.
  2. Add pasta and water: pour elbow macaroni into Instant Pot insert, add 2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt, stir to submerge pasta.
  3. Pressure cook: seal Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing, select Manual or Pressure Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
  4. Natural pressure release: let pot naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes, then switch valve to venting to release remaining pressure.
  5. Mix in butter and milk: open lid, stir in 2 tablespoons softened butter and 1 cup whole milk until pasta is tender and most water absorbed.
  6. Add cheese and seasonings: gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring gently until melted and creamy. Stir in garlic powder and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Final stir and serve: stir sauce until thick and velvety. If too thick, add splash more milk; if too thin, stir on Sauté mode 1-2 minutes to thicken.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and creaminess. Do not skip natural pressure release to avoid undercooked pasta. Stir gently when adding cheese to prevent clumping. Butter adds richness and smoothness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and adjust cook time accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, mac and cheese, creamy, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/creamy-instant-pot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-8-minute-dinner/