Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-comforting, this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is the ultimate weeknight meal that the whole family will love. Picture this: perfectly cooked whole wheat elbow pasta mingling with fresh broccoli florets, all enveloped in a velvety sharp cheddar cheese sauce. What’s even better? It’s all made in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.

Whether you’re trying to sneak in some veggies or simply want a quick, satisfying dish, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into why this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is a must-make!

Reasons to Love Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

There are countless reasons to adore this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli. Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot takes care of the cooking for you, making this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together in the Instant Pot.
Healthy Twist: Using whole wheat pasta and adding broccoli boosts the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and milk creates an irresistibly creamy sauce.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite mix-ins or toppings.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make this delightful Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb. uncooked whole wheat elbow pasta: A healthier pasta option that adds fiber.
4 cups water: Essential for cooking the pasta.
2 Tbsp grass-fed butter: Adds richness to the dish.
1/2 tsp ground mustard: A touch of tanginess that enhances the cheese flavor.
1 tsp salt: For seasoning the pasta water.
1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli: Provides a nutritious and colorful addition.
1 cup milk: Use 2% for creaminess; you can also opt for a non-dairy version if preferred.
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, offering that gooey, cheesy goodness.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Instant Pot: The hero of this recipe, allowing for quick cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring and mixing.
Colander: If you choose to rinse your pasta after cooking.
Serving bowls: To dish up your delicious mac and cheese.

Directions: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Water

In the Instant Pot, combine 1 lb. of uncooked whole wheat elbow pasta and 4 cups of water. Stir to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Season the Pasta

Add 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of pepper, and 1/2 tsp of ground mustard to the pot. This will infuse flavor into the pasta as it cooks.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release to release the steam.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Carefully remove the lid and stir in 2 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets. The residual heat will cook the broccoli perfectly.

Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce

Add 2 Tbsp of grass-fed butter and 1 cup of milk to the pasta and broccoli mixture. Stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is well combined.

Step 7: Stir in Cheese

Gradually add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be customized for special occasions. Here are some holiday-friendly variations:

Buffalo Chicken: Stir in shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
Truffle Mac and Cheese: Drizzle with truffle oil before serving for a gourmet touch.
Vegetable Medley: Add other veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Italian Flare: Mix in Italian seasoning and top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

What Could Go Wrong

While this Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is generally foolproof, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the Pasta: Stick to the recommended cooking time; overcooked pasta can become mushy.
Not Stirring Enough: Make sure to stir the cheese in well to prevent clumps.
Insufficient Liquid: Ensure you have enough water for proper cooking. If the pasta appears dry, add a bit more milk after cooking.
Burning the Bottom: Always use enough liquid to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, here’s how to do it:

You can make the Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for whole wheat elbow pasta, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

If you’re looking for a different cheese flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to add it at the right time so it cooks through without becoming mushy.

Is this recipe easy to double?

Yes! You can easily double the ingredients for a larger batch. Just be cautious with the water level and ensure your Instant Pot can accommodate the increased volume.

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Bring It to the Table

Gather your family around the table and serve up this comforting Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Broccoli. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy every cheesy bite!