Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Name: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love making Instant Pot Mac and Cheese because it offers a creamy, cheesy comfort that satisfies the whole family. With this dish, I can whip up a delightful meal in just a matter of minutes, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The convenience of the Instant Pot allows me to combine all the ingredients in one pot, resulting in a rich flavor without the hassle of multiple dishes. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll be hooked on the creamy simplicity of homemade mac and cheese!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-30T18:42:28.769Z

When I first tried making mac and cheese in the Instant Pot, I was skeptical. Could it really result in that velvety texture I love? After several attempts and adjustments, I discovered that using a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy gouda truly elevates the flavor. This blend not only melts beautifully but also creates a depth of taste that’s unbeatable.

My secret tip is to add a splash of cream at the end for extra richness. This little addition transforms the dish, making it luxuriously creamy. Now, every time I serve it, the compliments keep flowing, and it’s always a hit at gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness in a fraction of the time
One-pot meal means less cleanup and more family time
Customizable with your favorite cheese and add-ins!

Tips for Perfectly Creamy Mac and Cheese

To achieve the perfect creamy texture in your Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, it's essential to combine the cheeses at the right time. As soon as the pasta is cooked, remove the lid carefully and stir in the butter followed by the cheeses. This process allows the residual heat to melt the cheese evenly, preventing clumping. Stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and smooth; this should take around two to three minutes.

Another key technique is to use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged versions. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process, resulting in a less creamy sauce. If you're looking to introduce some extra flavors, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a spoonful of mustard powder when adding your cheese for a delightful twist.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

While sharp cheddar and gouda create a rich and flavorful combination, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties. For a sharper taste, try swapping in parmesan or adding cream cheese for extra creaminess. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cheese options or substituting half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk without sacrificing too much flavor.

If you're preparing a dairy-free version, replace the cheese with a plant-based blend and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can also be a fantastic addition, providing a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just be mindful of the consistency; you might need to adjust the water amount slightly to achieve the desired creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious meal:

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni, water, and salt to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual high pressure for 4 minutes.

Release Pressure

Once the cooking time is up, quickly release the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Carefully remove the lid.

Add Cheese and Cream

Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, gouda cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and creamy.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, delicious mac and cheese!

For a crispy topping, bake in the oven with breadcrumbs for a few minutes after cooking!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked bacon or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Instant Pot Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. Avoid high heat, as this can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.

If you want to freeze the mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stove, stirring in extra liquid as needed to bring it back to its creamy state.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. For a complete meal, add cooked proteins like shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or sautéed vegetables to the dish right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value to your dish.

For an exciting serving option, try serving the mac and cheese in individual ramekins, topped with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, and briefly broil until golden and crispy. This creates a delightful textural contrast to the creamy cheese, making for an impressive presentation at your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free elbow macaroni, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to adjust the water and cooking time accordingly.

→ What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use milk instead, but the mac and cheese might not be as creamy. Adding a bit of extra cheese can help compensate.

→ Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure you do not exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot.

→ Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love mac and cheese, and this version is easy for them to enjoy without any fuss.