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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

creamy crockpot mac and cheese - featured image

A hands-off, creamy mac and cheese recipe made in a slow cooker, perfect for busy nights and crowd-pleasing gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (12 oz / 340 g) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups (12 oz / 340 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 oz (227 g) Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 can (12 fl oz / 354 ml) evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional)
  • 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Measure 3 cups (12 oz / 340 g) of uncooked elbow macaroni. No need to pre-cook the pasta, but you can boil it for 2 minutes if you prefer firmer pasta.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese with 8 oz cubed Velveeta cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  3. Pour in one 12 fl oz can of evaporated milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream if using. Add 4 tbsp melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Spray the crockpot with non-stick spray or lightly butter the inside. Add the uncooked macaroni first, then pour the cheese and milk mixture over the top. Press gently to submerge the pasta.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir gently around 2 hours to prevent sticking and ensure even melting. Pasta should be tender and sauce creamy.
  6. Once cooked, stir again to combine. Optionally, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top and set crockpot to warm for 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese topping.
  7. Serve warm. If the mac and cheese thickens upon standing, stir in a splash of milk to loosen.

Notes

Start checking pasta at 2 hours to avoid overcooking. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent cheese settling and ensure even heat distribution. Use a mix of Velveeta and sharp cheddar for creamy texture. Dijon mustard brightens the cheese flavor. Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, crockpot mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, crowd-pleaser