Picture this: a busy weeknight, the clock is ticking, and the hunger pangs are getting louder. In moments like these, a comforting dish like Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. I stumbled upon this recipe during a chaotic grocery trip when I wanted to find a way to channel my love for cheeseburgers into something quick and hassle-free.
This delightful pasta dish brings together the rich, savory flavors of classic cheeseburgers with the beloved texture of macaroni, all in just one pot! With a handful of ingredients—like creamy cheddar and tender elbow macaroni—this recipe turns an ordinary night into a cozy culinary celebration. Plus, your Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding family or friends.
Let’s dive into the magic of this recipe and transform your mealtime routine with something deliciously comforting!
Why is Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: Whip up this hearty meal in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor Explosion: The savory blend of spices and creamy cheese guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite.
One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cleanup, you can enjoy delicious comfort food without the hassle of multiple dishes.
Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Comfort Food Redefined: Combine beloved cheeseburgers with macaroni for a unique twist that warms the soul.
Discover more easy weeknight options by trying out my other favorite quick dinner recipes.
Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Ingredients
Savor the deliciousness with these simple ingredients!
For the Beef Mixture
• Ground beef – The star of this dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Paprika – Adds a smoky depth and beautiful color to the beef.
• Onion powder – Imparts a subtle sweetness without the crunch of raw onions.
• Garlic powder – A must-have seasoning that elevates the overall flavor.
• Mustard powder – Gives a tangy kick reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors of the dish, making everything pop.
• Ground black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and enhances the savory notes.
For the Pasta
• Elbow macaroni – The perfect shape for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
• Beef broth – Provides a rich base that deepens the flavor and keeps the pasta moist.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps meld all the flavors together.
For the Creamy Finish
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully, giving that ultimate cheeseburger experience.
• Heavy whipping cream – Stir in for a luxurious, creamy texture that brings everything together.
Now you’re ready to whip up a delicious dish! Dive into the preparation and get ready to taste the joy of homemade Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni!
How to Make Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni
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Brown the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to Sauté and let it heat up until the display reads Hot. Add in the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and scrape the bottom of the pot to avoid any burnt bits.
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Add the Spices: Cancel the Sauté mode, and now sprinkle in the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly coat the beef and let the spices bloom for about a minute.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the elbow macaroni, beef broth, and add the butter. Make sure the macaroni is fully submerged in the broth; just a tip—don’t stir! This helps the pasta cook perfectly.
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Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid securely, set the vent to Sealing, and cook on HIGH pressure for 5 minutes. Don’t forget, it will take about 10 minutes to come to pressure first!
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Release and Finish: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release. Carefully open the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted, then mix in the heavy whipping cream for that rich, creamy finish.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the ground beef mixture by browning it and adding the spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. The elbow macaroni can also be measured out and set aside in a separate bowl. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious meal, just combine the prepared beef mix with the macaroni, beef broth, and butter in the Instant Pot, then proceed as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy every comforting bite of cheesy goodness with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights!
Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this comforting dish to suit your taste!
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Ground Turkey: Swap out the beef for ground turkey for a lighter option while maintaining great flavor. It’s a wonderful way to lighten up this favorite!
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Vegetarian Style: Use lentils or plant-based crumbles in place of the beef for a hearty vegetarian twist that’s packed with protein and flavor. You won’t miss the meat!
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Cheese Explosion: Mix in different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for an extra kick of flavor and a creamy texture. It’s a fun way to play with flavors!
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Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick that elevates the dish. Each bite brings a delightful heat!
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Creamy Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese to create a comforting dairy-free alternative that everyone will love. It’s rich and satisfying!
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers when you mix in the cheese for added color and nutrition. They’ll blend right into the deliciousness!
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BBQ Cheeseburger: Stir in your favorite barbecue sauce after releasing pressure for a sweet and tangy flavor that recreates the essence of barbecue cheeseburgers. A smoky delight!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a finishing touch to brighten up the dish with fresh flavors and a dash of color. It’s a lovely way to enhance presentation!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni
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Perfect Browning: Make sure the ground beef is browned well before adding spices for maximum flavor. This step is crucial to avoid undercooked meat.
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Don’t Stir: After adding the macaroni and broth, resist the urge to stir. This helps prevent the pasta from clumping and guarantees even cooking.
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Cheese Choice: Use high-quality shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents, as it won’t melt as smoothly.
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Release Method: For a creamier sauce, allow for a quick release after cooking. If more time pops up, wait a few minutes before releasing pressure, but make sure to keep an eye on the timing.
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Check Consistency: If the macaroni seems too thick after mixing in the cream, add a splash of milk or more beef broth to achieve your desired creaminess.
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni and elevate your mealtime experience!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of broth for moisture.
Freezer: Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Extra Tips: If you plan to freeze, it’s best to omit the cream until reheating for a fresher taste. Enjoy your comforting Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni?
Complete your cozy meal with some delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience!
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread adds a perfect crunch that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the macaroni.
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Coleslaw: This tangy mix of cabbage and carrots gives a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy texture of the dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets add vitamins and provide a mild earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they offer a delightful contrast to the savory cheeseburger flavors while adding texture.
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Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea cools down the palate, making it perfect for enjoying with this hearty dish.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, this classic sweet treat offers warmth and nostalgia, rounding out your comforting meal perfectly.
These pairings create a well-rounded dinner, making every bite of your Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni even more enjoyable!
Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Aim for ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 (80% lean meat to 20% fat). This will give your Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni a flavorful and juicy base without being overly greasy. Look for fresh meat that has a bright red color and make sure there’s no dark discoloration, which could indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftover Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal. Just add a splash of beef broth to keep it from drying out!
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion your Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni into airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label them and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little splash of milk or broth if needed.
What do I do if my macaroni turns out too thick?
Don’t worry if that happens! If you find your macaroni is thicker than desired, simply add a splash of milk or beef broth gradually as you stir. Stir well over low heat until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. The key is to be patient and keep adjusting until it’s just how you like it!
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
It’s always good to check! This Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni contains dairy (cheddar cheese and heavy cream) and gluten (elbow macaroni). If you have dairy allergies, you might substitute with dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream. For gluten-free alternatives, consider using gluten-free pasta; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Always double-check ingredient labels to be safe!
How can I enhance the flavor of my cheeseburger macaroni?
For a flavor boost, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce during the spice mixing step. You might also stir in some diced tomatoes or green onions just before serving for an extra layer of taste. The more the merrier—feel free to get creative with your toppings!
Savory Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to Sauté and heat until the display reads Hot. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease and scrape the bottom of the pot.
- Cancel Sauté mode. Sprinkle in paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the beef and let spices bloom for about a minute.
- Pour in elbow macaroni, beef broth, and add the butter. Ensure macaroni is submerged in broth; do not stir.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to Sealing, and cook on HIGH pressure for 5 minutes, allowing 10 minutes for pressure to build.
- Once cooking time is up, perform a quick release. Open the lid and stir in cheddar cheese until melted, then mix in heavy whipping cream.
