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Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese for Kids

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A quick and easy homemade mac and cheese recipe made in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights and kid-approved with a creamy, smooth texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 oz / 225g)
  • 2 ½ cups water or broth (600 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk (350 ml)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 8 oz / 225g)
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened (55g)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of black pepper (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Measure 2 cups (8 oz / 225g) of elbow macaroni and rinse briefly under cold water to prevent sticking.
  2. Pour macaroni into the Instant Pot. Add 2 ½ cups (600 ml) of water or broth, 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to combine.
  3. Close the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
  4. Perform a quick release by turning the valve to ‘Venting’ carefully to release steam.
  5. Open the lid and immediately add 1 ½ cups (350 ml) milk, 2 oz (55g) softened cream cheese, and 2 cups (8 oz / 225g) shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until cheeses melt and sauce is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Stir in ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  7. Serve warm. If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash more milk to loosen.

Notes

Rinse pasta before cooking to prevent sticking. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and flavor. Perform quick release immediately after cooking to avoid overcooked mushy pasta. Adding cream cheese helps keep sauce smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning mild for toddlers. Variations include adding veggies, swapping cheeses, or using dairy-free substitutes.

Nutrition

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

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