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Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

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This ultra-creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is made entirely in the slow cooker—no boiling or draining required. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • Chopped chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Hot sauce or smoked paprika (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Measure out all ingredients. Let cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  2. Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with butter or nonstick spray.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder.
  4. Add uncooked macaroni to the slow cooker. Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cubed cream cheese. If using parmesan, add it now.
  5. Pour the milk mixture over the pasta and cheeses. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, stirring halfway through.
  7. Check pasta for doneness after 1 hour 45 minutes. If needed, cook an extra 15 minutes, checking every 5 minutes.
  8. For crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top and let sit uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Add chives or parsley if desired.
  9. If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk. If too runny, cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Whisk vigorously if cheese clumps.
  10. Serve immediately for the creamiest texture. Sauce will thicken as it cools.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent clumping. To make gluten-free, use GF pasta and check cook time. For dairy-free, use unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free cheese. If making ahead, reheat gently with a splash of milk. Double the recipe in an 8-quart slow cooker and extend cook time by 15–20 minutes.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/creamy-slow-cooker-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort/