Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese! Perfectly creamy and cheesy, it’s the ideal side dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday meals. With the ease of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious, fuss-free meal that everyone will love.
INGREDIENTS
- Elbow Macaroni Pasta: 1 lb, for the classic mac and cheese texture.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 8 oz, grated, providing a rich, bold flavor.
- American Deli Cheese: 4 oz, cut into 1-inch cubes, melts smoothly and enhances the creamy texture.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, cut into 1-inch cubes, for added richness and flavor.
- Half and Half: 3 cups, essential for creating a creamy sauce that coats each piece of pasta.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon, adds a slight tang that enhances the cheese flavor.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, for a subtle hint of onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the overall flavors.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, adds a mild warmth to the dish.
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon, for a hint of smokiness and added color.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
- Place the elbow macaroni, cheeses, butter, half and half, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Step 2: Cook on LOW
- Set the slow cooker to LOW and cook for up to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Check for Doneness
- After about 1 ½ hours, check if the pasta is tender. Continue cooking longer if necessary until the pasta reaches a soft, fork-tender texture.
- Step 4: Adjust Consistency if Needed
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in a few tablespoons of milk to loosen it up and reach your preferred consistency.
- Step 5: Serve or Keep Warm
- Serve the mac and cheese right away, or switch the slow cooker to the WARM setting to keep it hot until ready to serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the mac and cheese warm, garnished with a sprinkle of additional cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
- Pair it with a variety of main dishes like grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Helpful Notes
- For the best texture, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, which often contain additives that prevent smooth melting.
- If you prefer a bit of a kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings; just be sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using a blend of cheeses for depth; try adding a bit of Gruyère or Fontina for extra flavor.
- Chef Jamie Oliver recommends tasting the pasta as it cooks to ensure it reaches the perfect al dente texture without overcooking.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- An easy, hands-off recipe that lets your slow cooker do all the work.
- Perfectly creamy and cheesy, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- Great as a side dish or even a main meal, especially for comfort food lovers.
Variations
- Swap in smoked cheddar for a smoky twist on this classic recipe.
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a heartier mac and cheese.
- Stir in a handful of chopped green onions or chives for a hint of freshness and color.