Name: Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 4 oz cream cheese, cubed; 2 tbsp butter; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family meals. It combines the convenience of slow cooking with the comfort of rich cheese sauce and tender pasta, offering an unforgettable taste without constant attention.

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Use Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar and a blend of mozzarella for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To avoid mushiness, undercook your pasta slightly before adding it to the crockpot.
Stir Occasionally: Stirring once or twice during the cooking process ensures the cheese sauce doesn’t stick to the sides and helps it cook evenly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a time-saving and stress-free way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy comfort food favorite. You can prepare it in the morning and have it ready for dinner, making it perfect for busy days, potlucks, or family gatherings. The slow-cooking process melds the flavors together for a rich, satisfying dish every time.

Yield: Serves 6

Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, slow-cooked Mac and Cheese perfect for busy days, potlucks, and family meals.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
2 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta: Cook the macaroni in boiling water for 6-7 minutes (undercook slightly). Drain and set aside.
Layer in Crockpot: Add the cooked macaroni to the crockpot, followed by the cream cheese, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded cheese.
Add Cream & Milk: Pour in the milk and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking.
Serve: Once creamy and heated through, stir and serve hot.

Notes

For a smoother sauce, mix in a bit of milk while reheating. Don’t skip stirring during the cooking process—this ensures an even melt and prevents clumps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 730Total Fat 55gSaturated Fat 32gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 162mgSodium 755mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 1gSugar 5gProtein 30g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes:

Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella offers the perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess.
Cream: Heavy cream helps achieve that luscious, velvety sauce that coats every noodle perfectly.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best, but any short pasta will do.
Seasoning: Customize with your favorite herbs, but be careful with salt, as cheese can be naturally salty.

Variations and Substitutions:

Add Protein: Try adding cooked chicken, bacon bits, or sausage for an extra savory twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Non-Dairy Option: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk for a vegan version.
Extra Creamy: For an ultra-creamy dish, add extra cream cheese or sour cream.

Storage Options:

Store leftover Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.