5-Ingredient Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe
Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This 5-Ingredient Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is the perfect solution. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a rich, creamy dish on the table in no time.
The Instant Pot works its magic, transforming simple macaroni into a luscious, cheesy delight in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving comfort food, this recipe delivers indulgent results without the fuss.
Say goodbye to store-bought mac and cheese – this homemade version offers unparalleled taste, with sharp Cheddar and buttery goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
5-Ingredient Instant Pot Mac and Cheese: Key Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni
The perfect pasta for soaking up rich, cheesy sauce, elbow macaroni is essential for that classic, comforting mac and cheese texture. It cooks evenly and swiftly in the Instant Pot, forming the base of this indulgent dish.
Evaporated Milk
This secret weapon adds velvety smoothness, creating a creamy sauce that clings to every bite. Its concentrated richness brings depth, enhancing the cheese without overwhelming it.
Unsalted Butter
Butter delivers a layer of buttery richness that elevates the overall flavor, offering a silky finish and enhancing the cheese’s natural meltability for a satisfying, mouth-coating experience.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
The star of the dish, cheddar melts into a gooey, luxurious sauce. Its sharpness provides a bold, tangy bite that balances the creaminess, giving the mac and cheese its irresistible cheesy pull.
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese
For the best results, opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting. Mild or medium Cheddar works wonderfully, but feel free to mix in sharper Cheddar for a bolder flavor or add a little Gruyère for extra creaminess. - Mind the Cooking Time
It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta in the Instant Pot, as it can turn mushy. Stick to the four-minute pressure cook time, as the pasta will continue to soften slightly while you stir in the cheese and other ingredients. Quick release the pressure immediately after the cooking time is done to prevent overcooking. - Enhance the Creaminess
If you want an even creamier texture, consider stirring in a small splash of cream or whole milk after the cheese has melted. This will add extra richness without diluting the flavor. Additionally, adding a spoonful of cream cheese can boost the creamy factor while contributing a subtle tangy note.
What to Serve with 5-Ingredient Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
- Green Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy mac and cheese. Use mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for a simple, vibrant side that balances the heaviness of the dish with bright, tangy flavors. - Garlic Bread
For carb lovers, garlic bread is an irresistible companion to mac and cheese. The crunch of the bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta, and the garlic butter adds a delightful flavor contrast. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of parsley for a satisfying bite. - Roasted Vegetables
Roasting veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent, nutritious side to serve with mac and cheese. The caramelized flavors and slightly crisp texture of the veggies are a nice counterpart to the cheesy richness.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, but stick to small shapes like shells, penne, or rotini for the best results. Larger or thinner pasta shapes might not cook evenly in the Instant Pot. - How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming dry?
To avoid dryness, make sure not to skimp on the evaporated milk and butter. Stir continuously when melting the cheese, and add a splash of extra milk or cream if needed to maintain creaminess. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it later. Add a bit of milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture. - Can I add extra ingredients to customize the dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even steamed veggies for added flavor and texture. Just stir them in after the cheese has melted for a delicious twist on the original recipe.
5-Ingredient Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 12- ounce can evaporated milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups shredded mild or medium Cheddar cheese
- Kosher salt
Instructions
- Place the elbow macaroni into a 6- or 8-quart Instant Pot® multi-cooker, accompanied by 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Secure the lid as per the manufacturer’s instructions and set the device to pressure cook on high for 4 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle concludes, refer to the manufacturer’s guide to perform a quick release of pressure. Once all steam has dissipated, carefully unlock and remove the lid. Switch the device to the low sauté setting for the next step.
- Gradually stir in the evaporated milk, butter, and ¼ cup of water. Slowly incorporate the shredded Cheddar cheese, stirring consistently until all the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Serve the dish immediately, while hot.
