Instant Pot Chili Mac

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This recipe for Instant Pot Chili Mac is the perfect quick and easy weeknight meal! With everything cooked in one pot, you've got easy cleanup and a delicious dish that the whole family will love!

Making meals in the Instant Pot is a lifesaver. Make simple recipe like this Creamed Corn in just under 20 minutes, or knock some major time off the normal cook time for Braised Beef Short Ribs.

Whatever you're looking for, the Instant Pot can do it! Just like this chili mac. I mean, don't get me wrong, chili is not an overly complicated recipe to make (check out my Baked Chili Mac Casserole), but come on guys. You'll probably want to try this Instant Pot Spaghetti too.

This recipe is ready in under 20 minutes. And you barely have to do anything. Annnnnd...it's like the most ultra comfort food ever. Like this Instant Pot ground beef stroganoff we love so much.

Tender macaroni, browned beef and onions in a creamy, cheesy tomato based sauce....you just can't go wrong.

You may also want to try these Stuffed Poblano Peppers or this Homemade Meatloaf to quell those comfort food cravings!

Ingredients

I keep it classic with macaroni, but you can also use penne, bowtie, spirals...any kind of bite sized pasta would work! I haven't tried it with spaghetti, but that would likely work too! Macaroni is also used in this Mexican Pasta Salad and this Spicy Mac and Cheese.

I recommend using 85/15 ground beef as it's the perfect combination of flavor and lean for the recipe. Any kind would work in a pinch though. Buy quality ground beef online. 

I use Velveeta for that ultra creamy texture, but you are welcome to substitute grated cheddar cheese. I recommend grating it from the block as it will melt easier. Buy Velveeta.

I use Rotele, which is diced tomatoes and green chilies mixed. You can also use 10 ounces of dices tomatoes and a 4 ounce can of diced green chilies. Buy Rotele.

The remaining ingredients are listed in the recipe card at the bottom of the post. 

Step By Step Instructions

Turn on the saute (normal) function on the Instant Pot. Add the ground beef and cook until browned (no pink left). Drain and discard the excess fat.

Add the onions and garlic to the Instant Pot and cook until softened. Add the beef back in.

Turn the Instant Pot off and add the seasonings, beans and broth and stir.

Add the rotele, crushed tomatoes and spread over the top of the beef mixture. DO NOT STIR.

Pour the macaroni on top and press it down into the liquid. DO NOT STIR.

Pressure cook for 5 minutes, then use the quick release to release any pressure. Stir in the cheese, cream and milk. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted.

Serve hot with sour cream and shredded cheese. You can also top with chopped cilantro (optional).

Variations

Now, this Instant Pot chili mac is excellent on it's own, but here are some other options:

• Add a can of pinto or white beans (rinsed) when you add the tomato sauce.
• Add chopped vegetables (green or red pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans. etc.).
• Add a pinch (¼ teaspoon) of cayenne pepper for some spice.
• Add a diced jalapeno or two for some spice.

Expert Tips

1. Drain the beef before adding the other ingredients. If you keep too much grease in the pot, you'll end up with a greasy mess.
2. Push the pasta down into the sauce (lightly - just so it's covered) with a spoon, but don't stir it.
3. Substitute ground turkey, chicken or bison for the ground beef.
4. Add an extra chipotle pepper or diced hot pepper for some additional spice.

For an ultra quick meal, you'll probably also love these Instant Pot Meatballs!

Did you make this Instant Pot Chili Mac? Rate it and leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out!