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Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 112 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 people
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy and indulgent, this Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers ultimate comfort with minimal effort. Made with a blend of cheddar and American cheeses, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta:

  • 1 pound elbow pasta uncooked (regular, NOT gluten free, NOT quick cook pasta)

Cheese Mixture:

  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 12 ounces Extra sharp cheddar, 3 cups shredded (from the deli, shred yourself, don't buy bagged)
  • 4 ounces American cheese, 1 cup shredded (from the deli, not processed slices)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Dash of cayenne pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed

Instructions

  1. Spray Slow Cooker: Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray.
  2. Rinse Pasta: Rinse the uncooked pasta well in cold water and drain.
  3. Mix Ingredients: Add uncooked pasta to the crockpot along with milks, cheeses, salt, pepper, mustard, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring macaroni is submerged in liquid.
  4. Add Butter: Dot with cubed butter.
  5. Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 1 hour. Stir occasionally. Continue cooking for 1-2 more hours if needed.
  6. Check Consistency: When done, pasta will be tender and the sauce will be thick and creamy. Sauce will thicken further upon standing.

Notes

  • Shredded Cheese: Avoid bagged shredded cheese to prevent grittiness. Shred cheese from the deli yourself.
  • Pasta Choice: Use sturdy pasta to prevent mushiness.
  • Slow Cooker Variations: Monitor cooking times based on slow cooker model. Avoid turning up the heat to prevent mushy pasta.
  • Preparation Tip: It’s recommended to do a trial run before making this dish for a special occasion.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 574 cal
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 923mg
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Carbohydrates: 51g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg