Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners with a dish that combines the comforting essence of Italian cuisine with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese? Look no further than this Instant Pot Creamy Italian Mac Cheese! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that will have your family asking for seconds. With its rich flavors, cheesy texture, and the convenience of the Instant Pot, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or when you're simply craving something delicious. Dive into the recipe below and discover how easy it is to create a cheesy masterpiece that will impress even the pickiest eaters!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups Italian cheese blend, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 cups of shredded Italian cheese blend, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode. Allow it to heat up for a minute.
- Once the Instant Pot is hot, add the 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot. This will serve as the cooking liquid for the macaroni.
- Stir in the 2 cups of elbow macaroni and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Make sure the macaroni is submerged in the broth.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to 'Sealing'.
- Set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode on high pressure for 4 minutes. The pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to 'Venting'. Be cautious of the steam.
- After the pressure has fully released and the pin drops, open the lid of the Instant Pot. Stir the macaroni mixture to combine.
- Add in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded Italian cheese blend. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Serve the creamy Italian mac and cheese hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, measure out your ingredients ahead of time. This way, you can quickly add everything to the Instant Pot without any delays.
- Sauté for Flavor: While the broth is heating, consider adding a bit of sautéed onion or bell pepper for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to sauté them before adding the broth.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends! A mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan can add a delightful twist to the classic Italian flavor profile.
- Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, increase the amount of heavy cream or cheese. You can also add a splash of milk for a lighter texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or add a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and color.
- Leftover Magic: This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
