Print

Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Topping Made Easy

creamy instant pot mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy creamy mac and cheese made in the Instant Pot with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for comforting weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 oz / 225 g)
  • 2 ½ cups water (600 ml)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml), warmed
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 oz / 225 g)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Breadcrumb topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and 2 ½ cups water to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Pressure cook on Manual (High) for 4 minutes. When done, do a quick release carefully. The pasta should be just tender, not mushy.
  2. Remove the pasta with a slotted spoon (reserve the cooking liquid). Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste and smells slightly nutty.
  3. Slowly pour in 2 cups of warmed milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Return the cooked pasta to the pot and stir well. Add 2 cups shredded cheddar, ½ cup Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts evenly and the sauce is creamy.
  5. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon Parmesan, and smoked paprika. Toss until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top. Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until golden and crispy.
  7. Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken up. Scoop generous portions and enjoy.

Notes

If the sauce seems too thick after resting, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Be careful not to overcook the pasta in the Instant Pot; it cooks quickly. Broil the breadcrumb topping for a perfect golden crunch. For gluten-free or vegan options, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, mac and cheese, creamy, crispy topping, comfort food, quick dinner, cheesy

Find it online: https://islatable.com/creamy-instant-pot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-topping-made-easy/