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The essential ingredients for this recipe are: - 8 oz elbow macaroni - 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup cream cheese, cubed - 1 cup milk - Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper

Instant Pot Mac & Cheese

Discover the ultimate Savory Instant Pot Mac & Cheese recipe that transforms your dinner in just minutes! With simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar, and cream cheese, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy delight everyone will love. Perfect for busy nights, this one-pot meal saves time on cooking and cleanup. Click through for the full recipe and enjoy a delicious comfort food experience that’s quick and easy!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup cream cheese, cubed

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for sautéing)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté (Optional): If desired, set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Add the garlic powder and onion powder; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Press Cancel to turn off the sauté mode.

    Add Macaroni: Pour in the elbow macaroni and pour the broth over the pasta. Stir to ensure the macaroni is submerged in the liquid without any sticking to the bottom.

      Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Set it to Manual mode for 4 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to Sealing. Once cooking finishes, allow a natural release for 5 minutes before carefully switching to Venting to release any remaining pressure.

        Mix in Cheeses: Open the lid and give the macaroni a good stir. Add in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is fully melted and creamy.

          Taste & Adjust: Taste the mac & cheese and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, cayenne) as needed for your preferences.

            Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6