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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

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This ultra-creamy mac and cheese is made effortlessly in the slow cooker, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese for a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or potlucks, it’s classic comfort food with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 8 oz)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Optional: Dash of hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Shred cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and cube the cream cheese.
  2. Lightly grease the crockpot insert with butter or nonstick spray.
  3. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the crockpot.
  4. Add all cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese), evaporated milk, whole milk, and melted butter.
  5. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add optional Parmesan, paprika, or hot sauce if desired.
  6. Stir gently to combine, ensuring noodles are submerged.
  7. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours. After 1 hour, stir to redistribute cheese.
  8. Check noodles at the 2-hour mark; they should be al dente and sauce creamy. If too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes.
  9. Stir well and adjust seasoning to taste.
  10. Serve hot. For a crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes.

Notes

For best results, shred cheese yourself for a smoother sauce. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent clumping. Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version and plant-based milk/cheese for dairy-free. Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to restore creaminess. Customize with veggies, different cheeses, or spices.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, crockpot, slow cooker, comfort food, creamy, easy, family dinner, potluck, kid-friendly, cheese, pasta

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-slow-cooker-comfort-food/