Prepare to revolutionize your comfort food game with the ULTIMATE Slow Cooker Creamy Mac and Cheese that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds! Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the most irresistible, velvety, cheese-laden pasta that practically melts in your mouth - no complicated techniques, no endless stirring, just pure cheesy perfection created with minimal effort. This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe; it's a game-changing, stress-free culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish that will become your new go-to comfort meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Set aside.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the milk over the macaroni, ensuring all pasta is mostly covered.
- Cut the butter into small cubes and distribute them evenly over the macaroni and milk.
- Sprinkle the mixed cheeses over the top of the macaroni, covering the entire surface.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, gently stirring to distribute the seasoning.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After 2 hours, check the pasta for doneness. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little extra milk to reach desired consistency.
- Once pasta is tender and cheese is fully melted and creamy, turn off the slow cooker.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for the smoothest, most luxurious texture.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cheese distribution.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using whole milk.
- Don't overcook - check pasta at the 2-hour mark to prevent mushy texture.
- Let the mac and cheese rest after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
- Experiment with cheese combinations like adding a bit of parmesan or gruyère for depth of flavor.
- If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add warm milk to reach your desired consistency.
- For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg
