Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is delightfully cheesy, creamy, and comforting. Best of all it takes a few minutes to throw it together. We serve it with brats, ham, and roast beef – really just about anything!

When I bought my Instant Pot I was a bit skeptical. Now it is my treasured baby! Who knew you actually could cook frozen chicken? I mean seriously!
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
I enjoyed playing with the appliance because new kitchen toys are fun. Then I discovered I could make amazing refried beans in minutes without even soaking the beans. But when my friend Emilee gave me this recipe – well that is when I fell in love. Frankly I was not somebody who made homemade mac and cheese that often. I never had a recipe I loved so I didn’t bother.
Now this version is a family staple. I usually make it when my mom’s group comes over. Our kids literally shovel this into their mouths two fistfuls at a time! (Granted we have toddlers) but still – it is completely hysterical!
I won’t tell you to go buy an Instant Pot but I will say that if you are interested there are usually good sales around Thanksgiving. I’m keeping my eyes open to pick one up for a gift!
Have a great week guys. Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!
Tools In This Post: I have gotten quite attached to my Instant Pot. It is amazing how easy it makes some things! Most families will find a 6 quart will work great. I have the 8 quart because sometimes I cook for large crowds.
Looking for more Instant Pot recipes? Try these wonderful Instant Pot Refried Beans!

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1 pound small elbow macaroni
- 3 Tbsp. butter
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 4 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
Instructions
- Put water, macaroni, butter, salt and pepper into the IP.
- Use the manual setting to set the pot for 3 minutes on high. Make sure the vent is set to sealing.
- The pot will take about 15 minutes to reach temp and cook the food. When it is done do a quick release.
- Add the evaporated milk and shredded cheese. Stir until melted and serve hot.
Your Rating Matters
When you leave a comment or star rating, it means more than you might think. It helps me understand what you’re enjoying, builds trust for other readers, and supports real, tested cooking content. If you have a moment, I’d truly appreciate you sharing your experience. - Mirlandra
Nutrition Estimate
A Note on Nutrition
Nutritional info is an imperfect estimate. Please take it with a grain of salt.
This recipe is from my friend Emilee Fortin. I have made minor adaptations.


Rachel says
This is my go-to recipe for homemade mac and cheese. I love that I’m not slaving over the stove stirring but not burning the roux. This one is so simple and delicious.
Mirlandra Neuneker says
Thank you! My nephews know that if they are coming to Auntie’s house this will be for lunch – always a win!
Suey says
my kids ask for this ALL the time! we love it and so easy to swap out different noodles
Mirlandra Neuneker says
Thank you! I’m so glad they love it so much. Classic kid food made with real food from scratch – can’t beat that!
Kimberly Scheid says
This has become a weekly meal for us. It’s a perfect quick, kid pleasing dinner on busy evenings.
Mirlandra Neuneker says
Wow! I love that you guys love this so much!