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Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

There’s nothing like a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese to bring back childhood memories! This slow cooker version is extra creamy and incredibly easy—no need to pre-cook the pasta. Just toss everything in and let your crockpot work its magic! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and share the love!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow pasta (uncooked)
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1 1/2 cups American cheese (cubed)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 tablespoons butter (cubed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked pasta, whole milk, evaporated milk, shredded cheddar, cubed American cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure the noodles are fully coated.
  3. Add Butter: Dot the top of the mixture with cubed butter.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the lid, stir well, and cover again. Cook for an additional 1 hour.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Once done, let the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes without the lid to allow the sauce to thicken.
  6. Serve: Stir one last time and serve warm. Enjoy!

Notes

  1. Cheese Choices: For the best flavor, use high-quality sharp cheddar and American cheese. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a twist.
  2. Pasta Note: Avoid overcooking the pasta by sticking to the recommended cooking time. If your slow cooker runs hot, check the pasta after 1.5 hours.
  3. Creaminess: Stir the mac and cheese well after the first hour to ensure even cooking and prevent the edges from drying out.
  4. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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