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Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-2.5 hours on low
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes - 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made easy. This creamy, cheesy, and incredibly indulgent dish is made with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for any meal, from weeknights to holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the bottom and sides of the Crock Pot insert to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking.
  2. Place the uncooked elbow macaroni into the Crock Pot. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, evaporated milk, whole milk, cubed butter, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
  3. Cover the Crock Pot with the lid and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the pasta cooks thoroughly. Be sure to check the pasta for doneness after about 2 hours to prevent overcooking.
  4. Once the pasta is tender and the cheese has melted into a creamy sauce, give the mac and cheese one last stir. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.For a smoky flavor, add 1 cup of cooked and  to the cheese mixture.If you prefer a creamier texture, add a small block of cream cheese or more evaporated milk.This recipe works with other short pasta shapes like penne or shells, just adjust the cooking time as needed.To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Find it online: https://lisarecipe.com/crock-pot-mac-and-cheese/