Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Instant Pot Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe. This creamy, cheesy delight is a family favorite that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, this one-pot wonder allows you to enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. Customize your mac and cheese by adding spices or your favorite vegetables for a personal touch. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious and easy mac and cheese that perfectly captures the essence of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large pasta shells
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces freshly shredded white cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces sliced white American cheese
- 1 cup milk (skim, low fat, or whole)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ teaspoons coarse sea salt
Instructions
- In your Instant Pot, combine the pasta, water, salt, and butter; stir briefly.
- Seal the pot and set it to high pressure for 4 minutes.
- Once cooked, carefully release steam using potholders or silicone gloves.
- If needed, drain excess water using a colander.
- Stir in the cheeses, milk, and Dijon mustard until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with optional black pepper or hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk. Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gouda or Monterey Jack. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.