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Instant Pot Panera Style Mac n Cheese

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Craving that creamy, cheesy goodness of Panera’s famous mac and cheese? You don’t need to order takeout anymore! This easy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers the same delicious flavor in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

In just 20 minutes you can have a steaming pot of this delightful mac and cheese ready to enjoy. Plus, with minimal prep work, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

Simply toss everything in your Instant Pot, cook for a few minutes, and then stir in the cheese for a creamy, dreamy sauce. No need for a fancy stovetop method, this recipe lets your pressure cooker do all the work!

So ditch the takeout menu and give this Instant Pot Panera Mac and Cheese a try. It’s sure to become a new family favorite!

Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
Yield: 6-8

Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Pasta Shells
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 4 tablespoons margarine
  • 8 ounces White Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices White American Cheese
  • 1 cup Milk
  • Black Pepper, optional

Instructions

  1. Add to your Instant Pot pasta, butter, and salt. Add 4 cups of water, and then give a good stir making sure each noodle has been mixed with the water.
  2. Close the lid on the Instant Pot, and turn the valve to sealed.
  3. Choose High Pressure for 4 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes for your IP to come to pressure. 
  4. Once the time is up, manually release by pulling the valve to you and opening it. Make sure to open using a towel or hot pad. 
  5. Remove some of the water from the pot. No need to make sure all is gone, just a bit. 
  6. Add in the shredded cheese, slices cheese, and milk to the noodles. Mix until fully incorporated. 
  7. Serve in bowls, and enjoy! 

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For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika.

To make it spicier, add a dash of red pepper flakes.

For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.

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