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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe

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5 from 10 reviews

A creamy, cheesy Instant Pot mac and cheese recipe that combines cheddar, fontina, and Parmesan for a rich and flavorful dish ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta and Seasoning

  • 1 lb. macaroni
  • 4 cups water
  • 4 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. ground mustard
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1 (5-oz.) can evaporated milk
  • 3 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded fontina cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning to Taste

  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Add macaroni, water, butter, kosher salt, ground mustard, and smoked paprika to the bowl of your Instant Pot.
  2. Cook Pasta: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual mode on high pressure. Cook the macaroni for 4 minutes under high pressure.
  3. Release Pressure: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a quick release of pressure, ensuring the cooking cycle is fully complete before unlocking and removing the lid.
  4. Add Cheese and Milk: Stir in the evaporated milk, shredded cheddar, fontina, and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and fully combined into a creamy sauce.
  5. Season and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired before serving.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, use whole milk instead of evaporated milk if preferred.
  • Feel free to substitute fontina with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
  • Ensure quick release pressure is done carefully to avoid splattering hot liquid.
  • To make it vegetarian, confirm cheese is free from animal rennet.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.