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–+ servings
This Instant Pot version of Panera mac and cheese surpasses the original copycat recipe, offering a rich and creamy dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a comforting meal in no time!

Instant Pot Panera Mac and Cheese

5 from 3 votes
Author: Laurie Fleming
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
15 minutes
Total Time: 24 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

A creamy, restaurant-style copycat of Panera's famous mac and cheese — made entirely in the Instant Pot in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients 

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 16 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 8 oz American cheese slices, torn
  • ¼ cup hot sauce, such as Frank's
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  • Add macaroni and water (or broth) to the Instant Pot. Lock the lid and set the valve to Sealed.
  • Pressure cook on High for 4 minutes.
  • Quick release the pressure, covering the valve with a folded towel.
  • Open the lid. Add butter and stir until melted, then add milk.
  • Add shredded cheddar, American cheese, hot sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes. Use Keep Warm setting if needed to finish melting.
  • Let rest uncovered for 3–5 minutes to thicken. Serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Pressure Cooker, Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi
  • Ladle

Notes

  • Always grate cheese fresh from a block — pre-shredded cheese will not melt smoothly.
  • For the most authentic Panera flavor, use sharp white cheddar.
  • Sauce thickens as it cools. Loosen with a splash of warm milk if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 582kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 26gFat: 33gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 94mgSodium: 1084mgPotassium: 243mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 961IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 731mgIron: 1mg