If you’re hunting for a meal that wraps up all the cozy goodness of chili and creamy mac and cheese into one speedy pot, then the Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. This dish is a perfect blend of hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and sharp cheddar, all cooked together in one pot. The result? A warm, cheesy, spicy mash-up that feels like a hug on a plate, ideal for busy weeknights when you want something filling and fuss-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center is a clear glass bowl with white chopped onions. To the right, a white bowl contains uncooked elbow macaroni pasta, golden-yellow in color. Below, a glass container holds a block of raw ground meat with a pinkish-red tone and a coarse texture. Above the onions, a small white bowl filled with shredded yellow cheese is visible. To the left, there is a small white bowl with a mix of brown and orange spices. Up above, a clear measuring cup filled with water is placed. Next to the spices and water, an open can reveals bright red diced tomatoes. A black and white striped cloth is partially visible in the bottom left corner. The layout is orderly, with clean, clear containers highlighting the colors and textures of each ingredient. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things straightforward with pantry staples and fresh basics that pack a punch in flavor, texture, and color. Each ingredient has a role in making this dish irresistibly comforting, from the flavorful spices to the creamy cheese.

Ground beef (1 lb): Provides rich, savory protein and forms the hearty base of the chili mac.
Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and body, balancing the spices perfectly.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the dish with deep, aromatic warmth.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Bring a bright tang and moisture that complements the beef and spices.
Kidney or black beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Adds texture and boosts the protein and fiber content.
Chili powder (2 tbsp): The star spice that delivers the classic chili flavor punch.
Cumin (1 tsp): Gives a smoky earthiness that rounds out the seasoning.
Smoked paprika (½ tsp, optional): Elevates the smoky aroma with gentle heat.
Beef or chicken broth (3 cups): The cooking liquid that infuses the pasta with savory richness.
Elbow macaroni (8 oz, uncooked): The tender pasta that soaks up all those incredible flavors.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings creaminess and sharp cheesy goodness to finish the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
Optional toppings: Sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, and cilantro add fresh, cool, or spicy accents when serving.

How to Make Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start your Instant Pot on the Sauté setting and brown the ground beef until it’s beautifully crumbly and browned, stirring in diced onions as it cooks. This step creates the deep, flavorful base you need for your chili mac. If there’s excess grease, drain it off to keep the dish from getting too oily. Next, toss in minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute to unlock its fragrant magic.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Beans, Spices, Broth, and Macaroni

Now stir in the diced tomatoes, drained beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if you choose to use it), and beef or chicken broth. Finally, add the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix everything together so that the pasta is evenly submerged. This mixture will give your dish that luscious chili flavor combined with perfectly cooked pasta.

Step 3: Pressure Cook and Release

Seal the Instant Pot lid tightly and set it to cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes. While the pot does its magic and the flavors melding, your kitchen will be filled with such an irresistible aroma that you’ll already be hungry. Once cooking is done, perform a quick release of the pressure, so you can get straight to the delicious part.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Season

Open the lid and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every bit of chili mac. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This final step is where the dish transforms into that gooey, heartwarming comfort meal that everyone craves.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of a dish with elbow macaroni pasta mixed with ground meat and a reddish-brown sauce. The texture looks creamy and thick, with the meat evenly spread throughout the pasta. A wooden spoon is scooping some of the macaroni mixture, held by a woman's hand visible on the right side. The colors include warm shades of orange, brown, and yellow from the sauce and pasta. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few toppings takes your chili mac to the next level. A dollop of sour cream brings cooling creaminess, while chopped green onions add crisp freshness. For those who love a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro brighten the dish with a lively kick and color contrast that invites your eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

Since this meal is hearty on its own, simple sides work best. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness, while some warm cornbread or garlic bread can be perfect for soaking up any saucy overflow. These sides make your meal feel complete without overwhelming the star dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl! Try serving the Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe scooped into mini cast iron skillets for a fun dinner party presentation, or fill bell pepper halves with the chili mac then bake for a colorful, edible serving vessel. These playful ideas bring extra charm and are sure to impress both family and guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your chili mac feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it great for quick lunches or second helpings. The flavors actually intensify slightly as it sits, so next-day meals taste fantastic.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind the pasta may absorb some liquid and soften a bit upon thawing. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer it to the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth or milk can help revive that creamy consistency. Stir occasionally, so it heats evenly and stays luscious.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly and keeps the dish a little lighter while still providing great flavor and protein. Just brown it the same way as beef in the sauté step.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap out the ground meat for extra beans or a plant-based crumbled meat substitute. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for heartiness.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Definitely, though cooking times might vary slightly. Pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne can work just as well if you adjust the pressure cooking time accordingly, usually keeping it around 4 minutes for the best texture.

How spicy is the Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe?

The base recipe has a gentle chili warmth thanks to chili powder and cumin. You can easily customize the heat by adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or extra jalapeños to suit your spice preference.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead and reheat for dinner?

Yes, it reheats wonderfully and is perfect for batch cooking. Prepare the full recipe, refrigerate, and when ready, gently warm it up while stirring in a little extra cheese or cream to restore that fresh-from-the-pot creaminess.

Final Thoughts

If comfort food had a superstar, the Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe would be right at the top. It’s fast, satisfying, and effortlessly combines two all-time favorites into one glorious dish. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to recipe to warm up your dinners with cheesy, hearty joy any night of the week.