Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will elevate your weeknight dinners to new heights! This Instant Pot Sausage Macaroni and Cheese is not just your average comfort food; it’s a mouthwatering fusion of savory Italian sausage and rich, melty cheddar that comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce will have your family begging for seconds. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to impress without the stress. Read on to discover how to whip up this delectable recipe in no time!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the Italian sausage from its casings and break the meat into small crumbles using your hands or a wooden spoon.
- Select the Sauté function on the Instant Pot and brown the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it is completely cooked and no pink remains, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot, spreading it evenly over the browned sausage.
- Pour the chicken broth over the macaroni, ensuring all pasta is submerged. Do not stir at this point.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode for 4 minutes on high pressure.
- Once cooking completes, perform a quick release to prevent overcooking the pasta.
- Open the lid and stir the pasta, then add milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Let the macaroni and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when browning the sausage; this step adds a depth of flavor to your dish. Make sure it’s cooked through before adding the pasta.
- Don’t Stir Before Pressure Cooking: After adding the macaroni and broth, resist the urge to stir. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking together during cooking.
- Quick Release is Key: For perfectly cooked macaroni, perform a quick release once the cooking time is up. This will keep the pasta al dente and avoid mushiness.
- Cheese Gradually: When adding the cheddar cheese, do it gradually while stirring. This ensures a smooth and creamy sauce without clumps.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate your dish.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
- Leftovers Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 95mg
