Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made easier and faster. With creamy, cheesy goodness ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings. The Instant Pot eliminates the need for draining, multiple pots, or constant stirring—giving you rich, homemade mac and cheese with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
water
butter
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
evaporated milk
sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
monterey jack cheese (shredded)
parmesan cheese (optional, for added depth)

directions

Add the elbow macaroni, water, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder into the Instant Pot.

Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.

Once done, perform a quick release carefully to avoid splatter.

Stir the pasta to loosen it up, then immediately add the evaporated milk.

Gradually add the shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra creaminess, add more milk or cheese to your liking.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 4 minutes under pressure
Pressure build and release: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage for a meaty version.
Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for added veggies.
Use smoked gouda or gruyère for a gourmet twist.
Add hot sauce or mustard powder for a sharp kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, just adjust the cook time based on the pasta type—usually half the cooking time listed on the box.

What cheeses work best?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack melt well and offer great flavor. Feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan.

Can I make this without evaporated milk?

Yes, whole milk or half-and-half can be used, though the texture might be slightly less rich.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely—it’s a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to fill the Instant Pot past the halfway mark before pressure cooking.

Why is my cheese clumping?

Add it gradually and stir constantly. Make sure the pasta is hot enough to melt the cheese evenly.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños when adding cheese.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or whipping up a quick solo dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in no time. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.