Introduction:
Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This creamy, cheesy dish comes together with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or as a side dish for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a velvety smooth mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires little attention while cooking, allowing you to focus on other tasks or relax while the Crockpot does the work.
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup butter (cubed)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
1-2 cups extra shredded cheese (for topping, optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients: Start by lightly greasing the inside of your Crockpot with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
Layer the Macaroni: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the Crockpot.
Combine the Dairy: Pour in the evaporated milk and whole milk. Add the cubed butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and mustard powder (if using). Stir to combine.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cook: Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it on low heat. Cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring halfway through. Check for doneness at the 2-hour mark and stir every 30 minutes to avoid sticking. The mac and cheese should be creamy and the pasta tender when done.
Finish: Once the mac and cheese is done, you can stir in an additional 1-2 cups of shredded cheese for extra gooeyness, or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Serve: Give the mac and cheese a final stir and serve hot.
Description:
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the epitome of easy and indulgent comfort food. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly. No need for a stovetop; just assemble the ingredients in the Crockpot, and let the magic happen. The result is a dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness that’s sure to satisfy any mac and cheese craving.
Tips:
Cheese Quality: Use high-quality, block cheese that you shred yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can sometimes affect the texture of your mac and cheese.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the mac and cheese as it cooks. If left too long, it can dry out. Stir periodically for the creamiest result.
Add Extra Flavors: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth of flavor as well.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just add everything to the Crockpot the next day and cook as directed.
Leftovers: Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Variations:
Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the Crockpot either before cooking or sprinkle it on top right before serving for a savory, smoky twist.
Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower for a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a couple of tablespoons of hot sauce to the mix for some spice.
Gluten-Free: Swap out the regular elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Correction:
If your mac and cheese turns out too dry, it could be due to the cooking time or the pasta absorbing too much liquid. Add a little extra milk or cheese to restore creaminess. On the other hand, if it’s too runny, try removing the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Enjoy:
Now you’re ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy Crockpot Mac and Cheese that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a simple weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to please. Enjoy every bite!