Instant Pot® Mac and Cheese with Ham and Peas
If you’re searching for the best mac and cheese recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with delightful extras, look no further. This Instant Pot® Mac and Cheese with Ham and Peas is a delicious homemade alternative to the classic blue box version we all know. Featuring a blend of cheese, diced ham, and peas, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Adjust the consistency of the mac and cheese sauce to your liking, and let the optional hot sauce add some pizzazz!
Yield
This recipe makes six servings, ideal for a family gathering or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder (such as Colman’s®)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Optional)
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
- 2 cups shredded 2% milk Cheddar cheese (such as Kraft®)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- ½ cup frozen peas, defrosted
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- First, add the water, elbow macaroni, dry mustard powder, salt, and hot sauce (if using) to your Instant Pot®. Stir to combine.
- Seal the Instant Pot® and cook on high pressure for four minutes. Keep in mind that the pot may take up to 10 minutes to come to pressure.
- Quick-release the pressure, carefully open the lid, and examine the macaroni to ensure it’s cooked to your preference. The macaroni should be tender but retain a slight bite.
- Add the evaporated milk, whole milk, and butter to the pot. Stir well to incorporate, allowing the butter to melt completely into the mixture.
- Gradually add the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously to ensure the cheese melts smoothly.
- Once the cheese has melted, fold in the diced ham and defrosted peas. Mix thoroughly.
- Allow the mac and cheese to sit for a couple of minutes, letting the sauce thicken to your desired consistency. Season with additional pepper to taste before serving.
Healthier Cooking Option
While this recipe uses 2% milk Cheddar cheese to reduce fats without affecting taste, you can further enhance its nutritional value. For a healthier twist, consider swapping Monterey Jack for low-fat mozzarella. Additionally, using whole wheat elbow macaroni increases fiber content. Nonetheless, these substitutions are optional and should not compromise the taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy
In just 44 minutes, this Instant Pot® Mac and Cheese with Ham and Peas comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. No more waiting, just quick satisfaction.
Nutritious and Delicious
This dish pairs creamy cheese with the nutritional benefits of ham and peas. Ham adds protein, while peas are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a comfort food craving, this mac and cheese recipe has you covered.
In conclusion, embrace the ease of homemade goodness with this best mac and cheese recipe. By using an Instant Pot®, you can explore endless variations of cheeses and additions to keep things exciting. Try it today, and taste the difference!
