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Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Leila
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This creamy, cheesy Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic made in the slow cooker for an effortless and indulgent meal. Combining sharp cheddar, American, cream cheese, and Parmesan with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, this recipe delivers a rich, velvety texture enhanced by Dijon mustard and spices. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, it’s simple to prepare and cooks slowly to develop deep, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta and Cheese

  • 1 pound medium elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 cups grated American cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Dairy and Liquids

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place the uncooked macaroni, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated American cheese, cubed cream cheese, and freshly grated Parmesan into a 4-quart slow cooker. This creates the base of your mac and cheese with varied creamy cheeses for depth of flavor.
  2. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the whole milk and evaporated milk, then stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, and onion powder. Make sure to stir gently so that the macaroni is submerged as much as possible. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preferred taste.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 90 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes. Remember to stir the mixture every hour to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The macaroni should become tender and creamy by the end of this time.
  4. Add Remaining Cheese: Uncover the slow cooker and stir in the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is rich and smooth. If you find the mac and cheese too thick, add a little more milk to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese onto plates or into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh chives for a burst of color and mild onion flavor. Serve immediately for best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Stirring every hour during cooking is essential to prevent the pasta from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • If the mac and cheese thickens too much after sitting, gently reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Feel free to customize by adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or breadcrumbs on top before serving for extra texture and flavor.
  • Makes a great make-ahead dish; just reheat gently and stir in a little milk if needed.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesbyleila.com/creamy-slow-cooker-mac-and-cheese-recipe/