Description

Cheesy mac & cheese crockpot magic delivers pure comfort straight from slow-cooking heaven. Creamy, rich layers of pasta and melted cheese promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups (300g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup (100g) shredded Gruyere or Parmesan cheese
16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
4 cups (960ml) whole milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon ground mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step: Prepare the slow cooker surface by applying a thin layer of cooking spray or butter to prevent ingredients from adhering to the sides and bottom.
Step: Pour uncooked macaroni directly into the slow cooker, creating an even base layer for the creamy mixture.
Step: Gently incorporate whole milk, evaporated milk, and melted butter, ensuring thorough blending of liquid components.
Step: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyere cheeses evenly across the surface, distributing them throughout the pasta.
Step: Enhance flavor profile by adding garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper, mixing all ingredients until uniformly combined.
Step: Cover the slow cooker and set temperature to low, allowing the dish to gently simmer and develop rich, creamy textures.
Step: Stir the mixture every 45 minutes to prevent pasta from clumping and ensure consistent cheese distribution.
Step: Verify pasta tenderness and cheese melting after approximately 2.5 hours of cooking.
Step: Transition slow cooker to warm setting once pasta reaches desired consistency and cheese becomes fully incorporated.
Step: Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives to add a bright, herbaceous finish before serving hot and creamy.

Notes

Prevent pasta clumping by stirring every half hour. Cheese selection matters; experiment with sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or fontina for deeper flavor profiles. Lactose-free adaptation works by substituting whole milk with almond or oat milk and using dairy-free cheese alternatives. Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a crunchy topping contrast.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT3H
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 624 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 21 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 54 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 97 mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, crockpot, slow cooker, comfort food, pasta, vegetarian, dinner