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Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese for Kids Easy Homemade Recipe

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A quick and creamy mac and cheese recipe made in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters. This homemade dish delivers velvety smooth, cheesy satisfaction in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces or 225 grams)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (about 43 grams)
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk, room temperature (360 ml)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 8 ounces or 225 grams)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (about 50 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Measure and add pasta and liquid: Put 2 cups (8 oz/225 g) elbow macaroni into the Instant Pot. Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) water or low-sodium chicken broth, making sure the pasta is submerged. No need to stir.
  2. Cook under pressure: Seal the lid and set to Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 4 minutes. The pasta will finish cooking during the natural pressure release.
  3. Natural pressure release: Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 5 minutes. Then, carefully do a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
  4. Add butter and milk: Open the lid and stir in 3 tablespoons softened butter and 1 ½ cups (360 ml) whole milk. Mix gently to combine.
  5. Incorporate cheese and seasonings: Gradually stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar and ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper if using. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is silky smooth. Add a splash more milk if too thick.
  6. Taste and adjust: Give it a quick taste and adjust salt or seasoning as needed. The sauce should be creamy but not runny.
  7. Serve immediately: Spoon into bowls and enjoy.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. Avoid overcooking pasta; the natural pressure release finishes cooking. Stir gently when adding cheese to prevent clumping. Use room temperature milk and butter for smooth sauce. Customize with mix-ins like veggies or proteins after cooking. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, mac and cheese, kids recipe, creamy, quick dinner, homemade, cheesy, comfort food

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/creamy-instant-pot-mac-and-cheese-for-kids-easy-homemade-recipe/