Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich and velvety texture with minimal effort. This slow-cooker version ensures perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, making it an ideal dish for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to set it and focus on other tasks.
• Consistently Creamy Texture: Cooking the pasta in the sauce ensures it absorbs all the cheesy goodness, resulting in a consistently creamy dish.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Keeps warm in the crockpot, making it convenient for serving at parties or potlucks.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni
• Unsalted butter
• Evaporated milk
• Whole milk
• Cream cheese
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground mustard
• Garlic powder

Directions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Rinse the uncooked elbow macaroni under cold water and drain well.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a greased slow cooker, add the drained macaroni, butter, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream cheese, 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 1 hour. Stir the mixture, ensuring the pasta is cooking evenly and the cheeses are melting smoothly.
4. Continue Cooking: Cover and cook for an additional 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy.
5. Serve: Once done, stir the mac and cheese to ensure an even consistency. Serve warm directly from the slow cooker.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
• Protein Addition: Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
• Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchy texture, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs, and broil until golden brown.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Stir midway through heating for even warmth.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

It’s best to shred cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess.

Do I need to cook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the slow cooker, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Cooking time may need slight adjustments.

Why is my mac and cheese oily?

Overheating can cause the cheese to separate and become oily. Ensure you’re cooking on low and stirring occasionally.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, combine all ingredients in a large pot over low heat, stirring until the cheese melts and the pasta is tender.

How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking and ensure you’re using sturdy pasta shapes. Stirring occasionally helps cook the pasta evenly.

Is it necessary to use both evaporated and whole milk?

The combination provides a rich and creamy texture, but you can experiment with other milk varieties based on preference.

Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.

How do I keep the mac and cheese warm for a party?

Once cooked, set the slow cooker to the ‘warm’ setting to keep it at an ideal serving temperature.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, but monitor the cooking time closely, as gluten-free pasta may cook faster and could become mushy if overcooked.

Conclusion

Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese offers a delightful blend of convenience and indulgence. Its rich, velvety texture and customizable nature make it a go-to dish for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving comfort food, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.

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