Instant Pot Taco Mac and Cheese

By JAmero4702

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ pound lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons Homemade Taco Seasoning
• 4 cups 1% milk
• One 16-ounce box penne pasta
• ¾ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 large tomato, cut into medium dice
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, parsley, or green onions (optional)
• Taco Seasoning
• ¼ cup chili powder
• ¼ cup garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Step 1

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté, Low Heat. Once it reads Hot, add the olive oil, bell pepper, onion, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

Add the ground beef and taco seasoning and brown for 5 minutes. Transfer the veggies and beef to a plate.

Add the milk and pasta to the pot, cover, and cook for 6 minutes on high pressure.

Quick-release the pressure. Stir in the cheese until melted. Return the veggies and beef to the pot, add the tomato, and toss to combine. Serve hot topped with optional herbs