Creamy Instant Pot Mac & Cheese Delight
Indulge in a rich, creamy mac and cheese that's quick and effortless with this Instant Pot recipe! This one-pot wonder requires no stove, making it perfect for busy weeknights or for when you want a comforting dish without the fuss. The combination of extra-sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates a delightful blend of flavors, while the addition of Dijon mustard and a touch of Frank's Red Hot sauce adds a subtle kick. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy solo meal, this mac and cheese promises to satisfy your cheese cravings. Enjoy a hearty serving that comes together in just minutes!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried pasta shells or macaroni
1 lb (None)
Water
4 cups (None)
Butter
2 tablespoons (None)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (None)
Kosher salt
1 tablespoon (None)
Frank's Red Hot sauce
3-4 dashes (None)
Evaporated milk
12 ounces (None)
Extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
8 ounces (Shredded)
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
8 ounces (Shredded)
Instructions
1
In the stainless steel insert of your Instant Pot, add the dried pasta, water, butter, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and Frank's Red Hot sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2
Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the vent is closed.
3
Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' setting and adjust the timer to 4 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes to come to pressure before the countdown begins.
4
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the pressure release valve to 'venting.' Immediately turn off the Instant Pot to avoid overcooking the pasta.
5
When the pressure has fully released and the safety pin drops, open the lid carefully, angling it away from you to prevent steam burns.
6
Add the evaporated milk to the pasta mixture. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, mixing thoroughly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
7
For optimal serving, enjoy immediately, or use the warm setting to keep your mac and cheese at the perfect temperature until ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Instant Pot Mac & Cheese Delight?
It is a rich, creamy, one-pot pasta dish made quickly in an Instant Pot using cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
How much pasta is required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 lb of dried pasta shells or macaroni.
How much water should I use?
You need to add 4 cups of water to the Instant Pot insert.
What are the cooking settings for the Instant Pot?
Use the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' setting on high pressure.
How long does the pasta cook under pressure?
The timer should be set for 4 minutes.
How long does it take for the Instant Pot to come to pressure?
It typically takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes before the countdown begins.
Should I use a natural or quick release?
You should perform a quick release immediately after the cooking time is complete.
What type of milk is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of evaporated milk.
What kind of cheeses are used?
A combination of extra-sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is used.
How much cheese is needed in total?
The recipe uses 8 ounces of shredded extra-sharp cheddar and 8 ounces of shredded Monterey Jack.
Is mustard added to this mac and cheese?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard is added for a subtle flavor enhancement.
What kind of hot sauce is recommended?
The recipe suggests using 3-4 dashes of Frank's Red Hot sauce.
Do I need to use a stove for this recipe?
No, this is a one-pot wonder that requires no stove, making it very effortless.
How much butter is included?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of butter.
What type of salt should I use?
1 tablespoon of kosher salt is recommended.
When should I add the evaporated milk?
Add the evaporated milk after the pressure has been released and the lid is opened.
When do I add the shredded cheese?
Gradually stir in the cheese after adding the evaporated milk until it is completely melted.
How can I prevent steam burns when opening the Instant Pot?
Open the lid carefully and angle it away from you once the safety pin drops.
Can I keep the mac and cheese warm if I am not ready to serve?
Yes, you can use the warm setting on your Instant Pot to keep it at the perfect temperature.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is specifically described as being perfect for busy weeknights due to its quick preparation.
Should the cheese be shredded or in block form?
The ingredients specify that the cheeses should be shredded for better melting.
What if I don't have pasta shells?
You can use macaroni as an alternative to dried pasta shells.
Does this recipe have a kick?
The combination of Dijon mustard and Frank's Red Hot sauce adds a subtle kick to the flavor profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total.
What should I do immediately after the quick release?
Immediately turn off the Instant Pot to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Is this a good meal for one person?
Yes, it is described as being perfect for a cozy solo meal or for gatherings.
Do I stir the ingredients before cooking?
Yes, you should stir the pasta, water, butter, mustard, salt, and hot sauce well to combine before sealing the lid.
What is the description of the final texture?
The result is a heart, rich, and creamy sauce that satisfies cheese cravings.
Is the vent open or closed during pressure cooking?
The vent must be closed to ensure the Instant Pot can reach the necessary pressure.
What is the best way to enjoy this dish?
For optimal serving, it is best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest.