Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Frozen Veggies

Name: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Frozen Veggies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 16 oz elbow macaroni (dry, uncooked); 4 tablespoons salted butter; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream (or (half & half)); 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (thawed); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

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Craving a creamy mac and cheese recipe that’s quick, kid-friendly, and packed with fiber? This Instant Pot mac and cheese with frozen veggies is a weeknight winner, ready in just about 20 minutes, plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in those extra veggies for a healthier twist!

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Simple bowl of creamy mac and cheese with vegetables

In just 20 minutes and with minimal effort, you’ll be sitting down to a comforting bowl of vegetarian mac and cheese that’s as tasty as it is healthy. Think creamy sharp cheddar, mixed vegetables, and tender pasta all made in the Instant Pot, no draining, no fuss. If you’re wondering, “Can you add frozen vegetables to mac and cheese?” the answer is a big yes!

Frozen veggies like broccoli, carrots, or a mix of your favorites blend perfectly into the creamy sauce, making this the best cheesy pasta recipe for both picky eaters and grown-up comfort food lovers. It’s an easy, family dinner that’ll quickly become a staple on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Mac And Cheese

Quick and Easy, Ready in Just 20 Minutes!

With a simple cooking time of 4 minutes, this Instant Pot mac and cheese lets you whip up a comforting, creamy dish in under 20 minutes total. Say goodbye to long cooking times and hello to a meal that’s on the table in no time!

Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved!

Not only is this mac and cheese irresistibly creamy but it’s also packed with healthy frozen veggies. Whether it’s broccoli, cauliflower, or mixed veggies, they add a touch of nutrition without compromising on flavor. It’s the kind of dish that even picky eaters will devour!

White bowl filled with creamy mac and cheese

One-Pot, No-Mess, Minimal Cleanup!

The best part? You make everything in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. No pots and pans to scrub, just a delicious, fiber-filled mac and cheese that’s perfect for busy families who want to keep it simple.

Meal Prep Without the Hassle

Okay, let’s be honest, some meal prep recipes sound great in theory, but then you’re stuck eating sad, dry leftovers all week. Not this one! This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Frozen Veggies is creamy, cheesy, and stays delicious even after a few days. Here’s how to make it work:

Step 1: Cook It Up

Make a batch of this mac and cheese, it takes 20 minutes max. Let it cool just a bit before packing it up (no one wants soggy, steamed-up containers).

Step 2: Pack It Like a Pro

Single servings? Perfect for quick lunches.

One big container? Great for lazy dinner nights when you just wanna scoop and eat.

Step 3: Store It Right

Fridge: Keeps for 3 to 4 days (if you don’t eat it all first).

Freezer: Yep, you can freeze it! Lasts up to 2 months, just thaw overnight before reheating.

Step 4: Reheat Without the Clumps

Microwave: Add a splash of milk, stir, and heat in 30-second bursts (no one likes gluey pasta).

Stovetop: Low heat + a little milk = creamy and fresh again!

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Instant Pot Pasta

Ingredients for Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Frozen Veggies – elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, mixed veggies, and more

Elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, but feel free to switch it up with any pasta shape you prefer!

Salted butter: It adds richness to the cheese sauce and helps everything come together perfectly.

Vegetable broth: This is the savory base for your sauce, and it gives a lovely depth of flavor. You can swap with chicken broth too!

Heavy cream (or half & half): For that extra creamy texture. It makes the sauce dreamy and smooth.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can experiment with different cheese varieties for a fun twist.

Ground Mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang to balance the richness of the cheese.

Garlic powder: Gives the mac and cheese that extra savory kick!

Frozen mixed vegetables: You can use whatever frozen veggie mix you have on hand! They add nutrition and are super easy to toss in without any prep.

Black pepper: A dash of pepper to enhance all the flavors.

Fresh parsley: Adds a touch of color and a fresh flavor to finish off your dish.

How to Make Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Cozy Frozen Veggies

Step 1: Add the elbow macaroni, salted butter, chicken broth, and salt to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid, seal the pressure valve, and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick-release the pressure once done.

Elbow macaroni, salted butter, chicken broth, and salt in the Instant Pot

Step 2: Open the lid carefully, away from the face, and stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese melts and everything’s smooth and combined.

Stirring in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and garlic powder into the Instant Pot

Step 3: Add the mixed vegetables and stir well. Close the lid and let it sit for 5 minutes. Open the lid, give it a quick stir, and serve in bowls. Top with a sprinkle of black pepper and fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy!

Adding mixed vegetables to the Instant Pot mac and cheese and letting it rest

Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Use the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Velveeta can add a super creamy, smooth texture. You can also mix in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for extra depth and flavor. Just make sure the cheeses melt well together!

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: The Instant Pot cooks pasta quickly! Stick to the recommended 4-minute cook time and use the quick-release method. This prevents overcooked, mushy pasta and keeps your mac and cheese perfect!

Add the Veggies Last: For the best texture and color, stir in your frozen mixed veggies after the pressure cooking is done. This keeps them vibrant and prevents them from getting too mushy.

Creamy sauce: Since you’re using heavy cream, your mac and cheese will already be incredibly creamy, but for an even smoother sauce, try adding Velveeta into the mix. It’s perfect for getting that ultra-creamy, velvety texture!

Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to toss in some cooked spinach, broccoli, or even shredded chicken for a heartier meal. The Instant Pot is great for adding a variety of ingredients to customize your mac and cheese.

Finished creamy mac and cheese with veggies inside the Instant Pot

Variations and Tasty Add-Ins for Mac and Cheese

Broccoli & Cheese: Add steamed broccoli for that classic broccoli cheddar mac and cheese combo. It’s the perfect way to sneak in some veggies while keeping everything deliciously cheesy.

Spinach & Artichoke: For a creamy and flavorful twist, add a handful of fresh spinach or a jar of artichoke hearts. The creamy cheese sauce perfectly complements the earthy spinach and tangy artichokes.

Chicken Mac and Cheese: For a heartier meal, stir in some cooked shredded chicken or grilled chicken pieces. It turns your mac and cheese into a full meal that’s both satisfying and protein-packed.

Fork scooping mac and cheese with mixed vegetables from a bowl

Bacon Lover’s Mac: Crispy bacon bits add an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor that everyone will love. You can even sprinkle some crispy bacon on top for extra texture.

Spicy Mac and Cheese: If you’re a fan of a little heat, add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your mac and cheese a spicy kick. Cayenne pepper is another great option for adding a little heat without overpowering the flavors.

Cheese Variety: Don’t stick to just cheddar. Experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for unique flavors. If you love a creamy texture, add a block of Velveeta or cream cheese for extra richness.

Vegan Mac and Cheese: Swap out the dairy for plant-based cheese, nutritional yeast, and coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy and delicious vegan-friendly mac and cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers

Once your Instant Pot mac and cheese is done, allow it to cool down a bit before storing it. Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container and place it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning on storing it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure the container is freezer-safe, and don’t forget to label it with the date!

Wooden spoon scooping creamy mac and cheese with vegetables from Instant Pot

Reheating Leftovers

Stovetop For the creamiest results, heat your mac and cheese in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up and stir occasionally until it's warmed through.

Microwave This is the quickest way to reheat! Place your mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot and creamy. Add a little milk if it’s too thick!

Instant Pot Yes, you can reheat it in your Instant Pot too! Use the saute function on low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream as needed. Stir it frequently to prevent it from sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really make this mac and cheese in just 20 minutes?

Absolutely! With the Instant Pot, you can cook up this creamy, cheesy goodness in no time! Once you throw everything in, it's ready in just 4 minutes of cooking time and a quick release. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! To make this mac and cheese gluten-free, simply swap the regular elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of gluten-free pasta options out there that will work great in this recipe – just pick your favorite! You’ll still get that delicious, creamy mac and cheese without any gluten worries.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cheese, non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and plant-based butter to make a delicious, dairy-free version of this mac and cheese. It’s just as creamy and comforting!

What other veggies can I add to this dish?

You can pretty much toss in any veggie you like! Try adding peas, spinach, zucchini, or even cauliflower for some extra flavor and nutrients. This dish is versatile, and you can mix and match to your heart’s content.

Can I use any pasta shape besides elbow macaroni?

Of course! Feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Penne, rotini, or shells work great too. Just be sure to keep the cooking time the same for best results!

Why does my Instant Pot mac and cheese sometimes turn out watery?

If your mac and cheese is too watery, it’s usually because there’s too much liquid in the pot. Make sure to measure your liquids properly and don’t go overboard with the broth. You can also add a little more cheese to thicken it up!

Close-up of a bowl of mac and cheese with melted cheese and broccoli

What Can I Serve with This Mac and Cheese?

Green Salad: A light, fresh salad pairs beautifully with cheesy mac. Afterward, finish off with something sweet like Blueberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats.

Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a winner. To round out the meal, serve up Lemon Blueberry Cookies for dessert.

Roasted Veggies: Roasted broccoli or cauliflower makes a perfect savory side. If you’re craving something zesty, Street Corn Guacamole is a great option.

Crispy Fried Onions: Add some crunch with crispy fried onions. For a fun dessert, try a dip like Brownie Batter Dip to wrap up the meal.

Sautéed Greens: Sautéed kale or spinach makes for a nutritious side. Pair it with a sweet mini dessert like a cheesecake to finish.

Grilled Chicken: For an extra protein boost, grilled chicken works wonders. End on a light note with Lemon Blueberry Cookies to balance the flavors.

Mac and cheese in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top

Loved This Recipe? Let Me Know!

If you enjoyed this creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese with Frozen Veggies, I’d love to hear from you! Please take a moment to rate the recipe below and leave a comment with your thoughts. Your feedback helps me create more delicious dishes for you to try!