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Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

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A comforting, creamy, and easy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe perfect for busy nights and gatherings. This hands-off recipe uses simple ingredients and delivers rich, gooey cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (8 oz) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (12 oz)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the macaroni: measure 2 cups (8 oz) uncooked elbow macaroni and set aside. No pre-cooking needed.
  2. Mix the liquid base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups whole milk, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.
  3. Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Add the uncooked macaroni, 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 4 oz softened cream cheese to the slow cooker. Pour the milk mixture over the top.
  4. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to combine without over-stirring.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring gently halfway through to prevent sticking. The mac and cheese should be creamy and pasta tender but not mushy.
  6. Check consistency: If too thick, stir in a splash of milk. If too thin, cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes to thicken.
  7. Optional broil: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking. Use whole milk for best creaminess. Optional Parmesan topping can be broiled for a crispy crust. For dairy-free or gluten-free options, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy comfort food, cheesy pasta, slow cooker recipe

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/creamy-slow-cooker-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/