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Bowl of creamy macaroni and cheese on a white and blue placemat.

Pressure Cooker Mac and Cheese

A blend of Cheddar and Colby-Jack makes for a creamy mac and cheese. 
For best results, use elbow macaroni. (Barilla brand for gluten-free) 

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 388 kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (for gluten-free, use Barilla pasta)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted cold or room temperature
  • 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon spicyy brown mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce optional
  • 1 1/2 cups (4 ounces) grated sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups (4 ounces) grated Colby-Jack cheese
  • salt and pepper , to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine water and salt in the pot of an electric pressure cooker. Stir to dissolve the salt. Add the pasta and butter. Lock lid in place. Set a 4 minute cook time on high pressure. 

  2. While the pasta cooks, whisk together evaporated milk, egg, mustard, and hot pepper sauce in a small bowl. 

  3. Once the cook cycle completes, allow the pasta to sit for one minute. After one minute, open the machine using a quick pressure release.  

  4. If it isn't already, turn on the "keep warm" setting. Pour the milk mixture over the pasta. Stir until it thickens, about two minutes. 

  5. Stir the pasta to remove any clumps. If any water remains, drain the pasta. Add 1/3 of the cheese. Stir the macaroni until the cheese melts. Repeat, adding 1/3 of the cheese at a time, until all the cheese had been added. 

  6. Once the cheese has melted, remove the pot from the pressure cooker and immediately pour the macaroni and cheese into a serving dish. If the pasta stays in the cooking pot, it can overcook and turn curdled and lumpy. 

  7. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat, covered, in a microwave. 

Recipe Notes

  • Be sure to turn pressure cooker to the "keep warm" setting when adding the milk, egg, and cheese. 
  • As soon as the milk mixture thickens, begin adding the cheese. 
  • Add the cheese in three additions. Stir and allow the cheese to melt before adding the next handful. 
  • As soon as all the cheese melts, pour the mac and cheese into a serving dish to prevent it from overcooking.