Name: The Best Instant Pot Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 cups beef bone broth; 1 cup water; 1 pound elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; ½ teaspoon seasoning salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup heavy cream; 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese ((shredded))

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Discover the best Instant Pot cheeseburger mac and cheese recipe! This quick and creamy dish combines savory beef, melted cheese, and pasta for a hearty, family-friendly meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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Up close picture of homemade cheeseburger Mac in a white bowl.

Looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal? This Instant Pot cheeseburger mac and cheese recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with savory ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tender elbow macaroni, this one pot dish delivers all the flavors of the classic Hamburger Helper cheeseburger macaroni and cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re craving a satisfying meal without all the fuss, this easy Instant Pot recipe is a game-changer. This easy dinner is ready in under 30 minutes, and I’m sure your whole family is sure to love this recipe.

This recipe can be served with einkorn breadsticks as a side or a simple Cesar salad. For dessert you can indulge in a slice of homemade chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream frosting!

Equipment

Instant pot – You will need an instant pot for this recipe. It ensures the noodles cook fast and thoroughly while getting your homemade hamburger helper done in optimal time.

A full list of equipment can be found in the recipe card below.

Ingredients

Ground beef – This is the main protein source used in this recipe. Ground beef adds a rich, savory depth of flavor that enhances this homemade cheeseburger macaroni with its hearty, meaty taste.
Elbow pasta – Elbow pasta offers a soft, slightly chewy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. Its shape allows sauces to cling, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
Beef bone broth – Beef broth adds richness, depth, and savory flavors to this cheeseburger mac and cheese recipe, enhancing its overall flavor profile. It also helps add additional protein, making it great if you are trying to focus on health. (You can substitute with beef broth, but it will not have as much protein and added nutrients that come from bone broth.)

A full list of ingredients with measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Ingredients for homemade hamburger Mac and cheese on a table with text overlay.

How to Make Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese in an Instant Pot

1. Set the instant pot on the high saute function for 15 minutes. Cook the ground beef until there is no pink left and the beef is fully cooked.

2. Pour the bone broth and water into the pot. Using a wooden spatula or other wooden utensil, deglaze the pot by scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the pot. (Do not skip this step! This helps prevent burning.)

3. Add the noodles, butter, and all spices. Stir until well combined.

Ingredients for homemade hamburger helper in an Instant Pot.

4. Place the lid on and lock it. Place the valve in the sealing position. Select pressure cook on high for 9 minutes. (If you are using a different pasta, set the timer to 1 minute less than the cook time the pasta directions recommend.)

5. Once it has finished cooking, do a quick release of pressure by moving the valve from the sealing position to the venting position. Allow to vent completely. When the pressure indicator has dropped, remove the lid.

6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cheese has melted and the heavy cream is thoroughly incorporated. Serve and enjoy!

Homemade cheeseburger hamburger helper in a bowl.

Storage

If you have the Instant pot glass lid, place that on the instant pot removable insert and place in the refrigerator. It can also be stored in an airtight container. If stored properly, they will remain fresh for 3-4 days.

Reheating

Place the instant pot insert back into the Instant pot base. Place on the saute low function for 10 minutes. Add a little milk or heavy cream to the hamburger with mac and cheese. Stir continuously to prevent burning or sticking. Saute until it is thoroughly heated.

FAQs

Is Hamburger Helper mac and cheese?

It is, but it’s not quite that simple. It has a mac and cheese aspect to it, but it contains ground beef, bone broth, and spices to add much needed flavor to the dish.

What goes with hamburger mac and cheese?

Hamburger Helper pairs perfectly with vegetables, garlic bread, or einkorn breadsticks. The side possibilities are endless when it comes to an easy dish like cheeseburger macaroni and cheese.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes. You can use milk instead of cream, but use half the amount the recipe calls for when using milk in place of cream. Its important to note that since you are using milk, you may not get as creamy of a cheeseburger macaroni recipe.

If you try this recipe, I would love it if you left a star rating or a written review below. I love hearing your feedback!

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