Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
This Instant Pot mac and cheese delivers tender elbow pasta coated in a velvety blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Chicken broth, butter, garlic, and a small amount of hot sauce create a savory foundation, while milk brings the cheese sauce to a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Ingredients
- 1 pound dry elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 to 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Place the uncooked elbow macaroni in the Instant Pot along with the chicken broth, butter, hot sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir gently until the seasonings and other ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Lock the Instant Pot lid securely in place and turn the pressure valve to the Sealing position. Select the manual or pressure-cook setting and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- As soon as the cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release. Wait until all pressure has escaped before opening the lid. Stir the pasta briefly to separate any noodles that may have settled together during cooking.
- While the macaroni is still very hot, pour in 1/2 cup of the milk and stir thoroughly. Add additional milk gradually, if required, until the pasta reaches the desired creamy consistency.
- Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan in approximately three to four smaller portions rather than all at once. Stir thoroughly after each addition so that the cheese melts evenly into a smooth, rich sauce.
- Taste the finished macaroni and cheese and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Whole milk provides a particularly rich and creamy texture.
- Begin with 1/2 cup milk and increase the quantity gradually, using up to 1 cup as needed for consistency.
- Sharp cheddar gives the finished dish a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and provides better flavor than many pre-grated varieties.
- Unsalted butter, such as Kerrygold, may be used for additional richness while allowing better control over the overall salt level.