Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with the ultimate indulgence: Instant Pot Mac and Queso! This creamy, cheesy delight combines the beloved flavors of classic macaroni and cheese with the rich, zesty notes of queso, creating a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, cubed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring out the macaroni, chicken broth, cheeses, and seasonings.
- Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot, then add the dry elbow macaroni. Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select the Manual/Pressure Cook setting.
- Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, allowing for a quick cook time that prevents pasta from becoming mushy.
- Once cooking completes, perform a quick release by carefully turning the pressure valve to release remaining steam.
- Open the lid and stir the pasta, then immediately add cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the pasta and cheese mixture.
- Stir vigorously to help cheese melt and create a creamy, smooth sauce coating the macaroni.
- Let the mac and queso rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, measure out your ingredients in advance. Having everything ready to go will streamline your cooking process and make it even easier to whip up this delicious dish.
- Don’t Skip the Quick Release: After the cooking time is up, be sure to perform a quick release of the pressure. This helps prevent the pasta from overcooking and ensures a perfect texture.
- Mix it Up: Feel free to customize your mac and queso by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes for an extra kick of flavor.
- Stir Vigorously: When adding the cheeses, stir vigorously to help them melt and create that creamy, dreamy sauce. The more you mix, the smoother your mac and queso will be!
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking will help the sauce thicken up, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Garnish for Flair: Consider garnishing your mac and queso with additional shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added texture and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
