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Crockpot Mac and Cheese

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This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, rich, and comforting pasta dish made right in the slow cooker. With tender macaroni, gooey melted cheese, and a velvety sauce, it’s the perfect no-fuss meal or side dish for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.

Ingredients

  • 16 oz (450 g) elbow macaroni (or another short pasta)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly grated preferred)
  • 1 cup Gruyère or mozzarella cheese (optional mix-in)
  • 4 oz cream cheese or 4 slices American cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for color and spice)
  • Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Lightly spray the insert of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cook the macaroni just until al dente if using pre-cooked pasta; drain well. If using uncooked pasta, skip this step.
  3. Place macaroni in the prepared crockpot.
  4. Add butter, milk, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and any seasonings (mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika).
  5. Stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and any additional cheeses, mixing gently to coat the pasta evenly.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 1½–3 hours or on HIGH for 1–2 hours, checking at the shorter time to avoid overcooking.
  7. When pasta is tender and sauce is creamy, stir again. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
  8. Serve hot, topped with extra cheese, paprika, or breadcrumbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting.
  • Do not overcook the pasta — check early for tenderness.
  • Add a little milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Great as a main dish or side for BBQ, holidays, or potlucks.
  • Can be kept warm in the crockpot; stir occasionally and add milk if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/crockpot-mac-and-cheese-2/