Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, and when prepared in a slow cooker, it becomes even easier and more delicious. This creamy crockpot mac and cheese is the perfect side dish for any occasion or a hearty meal on its own. With the combination of sharp cheddar, Velveeta, and cream cheese, this dish is rich, flavorful, and oh-so-creamy. The slow cooker ensures that the cheese melts perfectly, and the pasta absorbs all the creamy goodness, creating a dish that’s both smooth and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
What makes this recipe so great is the simplicity of preparation. After cooking the pasta, everything is combined in the slow cooker, and it does all the work for you. It’s a no-fuss dish that delivers big flavor without the need for constant attention in the kitchen. Plus, it’s customizable! Feel free to add extras like bacon, herbs, or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for an extra touch.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8):
- 1 lb. macaroni pasta, uncooked
- 1 tbsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
- 6 tbsp. salted butter
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 lb. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 oz.) package Velveeta cheese
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp. dry mustard powder
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and cook the macaroni pasta for about 7 minutes. Drain and rinse to cool.
- Grease the bowl of a slow cooker with cooking spray or use a liner. Add the pasta, evaporated milk, regular milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Velveeta, cream cheese, and dry mustard powder into the slow cooker, reserving 1/4 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Stir everything to combine, then cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 2 hours, stirring twice during the cooking time to ensure the noodles don’t overcook.
- Once done, sprinkle the reserved sharp cheddar cheese on top and cover until it melts. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations:
This crockpot mac & cheese is a rich and indulgent dish, providing a hearty serving of dairy and carbs. It’s perfect for those who love creamy comfort food but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. It contains dairy and gluten, making it unsuitable for those following a dairy-free or gluten-free diet.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
If you tried making this crockpot mac & cheese, share your feedback and any fun twists you added! Your comments inspire others and help create a supportive community of food lovers. Let’s keep the conversation going and spread the love for delicious homemade meals!