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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

creamy crockpot mac and cheese - featured image
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A simple, 5-ingredient creamy mac and cheese recipe made effortlessly in the crockpot, perfect for cozy comfort food on busy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups (about 340g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: pinch of mustard powder
  • Optional: dash of smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Measure 2 cups (200g) of dry elbow macaroni; no need to pre-cook.
  2. In the crockpot insert, combine 2 cups (480ml) whole milk, 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and seasonings (about 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste). Stir gently until butter melts.
  3. Add the elbow macaroni to the crockpot and stir to coat evenly with the milk mixture.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent clumping.
  5. Once macaroni is tender but not mushy, add 3 cups (340g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy, about 5 minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If too thick, stir in a splash of milk to loosen.
  7. Serve warm immediately.

Notes

Stir every 20-30 minutes to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. If crockpot runs hot, check pasta doneness earlier to avoid overcooking. For thicker sauce, reduce milk to 1 3/4 cups (420ml). Adding cheese at the end keeps sauce smooth. For a crunchy topping, transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil breadcrumbs briefly.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, 5-ingredient recipe

Find it online: https://nadinetable.com/creamy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-5-ingredient-cozy-comfort/