Description
This Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy slow cooker recipe made with uncooked pasta, whole milk, evaporated milk, and plenty of cheese for a rich, homemade flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups (about 8 oz) elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 1/2 cups whole milk
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly grease the Crock Pot with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the whole milk and evaporated milk. Add the melted butter, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella or Monterey Jack, and cream cheese if using. Mix well to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring every 30 to 45 minutes to ensure even cooking and smooth melting.
- Monitor closely near the end of cooking to prevent overcooking. If the mixture becomes too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with extra cheese, paprika, or hot sauce.
Notes
Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking and to keep the sauce smooth.
If the mac and cheese becomes too thick, add warm milk a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating with added milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg