Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and rich Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese. Perfect for busy days or when you need a hands-off approach, this recipe delivers a deliciously cheesy dish without the fuss.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.​
• Rich and Creamy Texture: The blend of cheeses melts into a luscious sauce that envelops each macaroni piece.​
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or any event where you need a crowd-pleasing dish.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni​Southern Living+6Southern Bite+6Amanda’s Cookin’+6
• Butter​The Kitchn
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese​Amanda’s Cookin’+2The Food Charlatan+2Southern Bite+2
• Shredded American cheese​The Food Charlatan+2Southern Bite+2Amanda’s Cookin’+2
• Evaporated milk​Allrecipes+3Southern Bite+3Reddit+3
• Whole milk​The Food Charlatan+2Southern Bite+2Amanda’s Cookin’+2
• Cream​The Food Charlatan
• Mayonnaise​Reddit+1The Food Charlatan+1
• Salt​Amanda’s Cookin’+2The Food Charlatan+2Southern Bite+2
• Black pepper​Southern Bite+5The Food Charlatan+5Amanda’s Cookin’+5
• Cayenne pepper​Amanda’s Cookin’

Directions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of a 4-quart slow cooker with melted butter to prevent sticking.​
2. Combine Ingredients: Add uncooked elbow macaroni, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is coated and submerged.​The Food Charlatan
3. Add Cheeses: Incorporate chopped American cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and shredded Parmesan cheese into the mixture. Stir to distribute evenly.​
4. Cook: Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 1 hour. After 1 hour, stir the mixture thoroughly, scraping the sides and bottom to prevent sticking.​
5. Continue Cooking: Replace the lid and continue to cook on LOW, checking every 30 minutes. The mac and cheese is done when the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy, approximately 1 to 2 additional hours.​
6. Serve: Once cooked to your desired consistency, switch the slow cooker to the WARM setting until ready to serve.​Southern Living

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.​
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes​Amanda’s Cookin’+3Allrecipes+3The Food Charlatan+3
• Cooking Time: 1.5 to 3 hours on LOW, depending on your slow cooker’s heat level and desired pasta tenderness.​

Variations

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese combinations such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Fontina for varied flavors.​
• Add-Ins: Incorporate cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added texture and taste.​
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to introduce some heat.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave at 50% power, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. If reheating a larger quantity, do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. ​The Food Charlatan

FAQs

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking by checking the pasta’s tenderness periodically after the initial hour. Each slow cooker varies, so adjust the cooking time as needed.​

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s recommended to shred your own cheese, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess. ​The Food Charlatan

Is it possible to double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Cooking time may need slight adjustments.​

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat as directed. Note that the texture may slightly change upon reheating.​

What can I use instead of evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk contributes to the dish’s creaminess. Substituting it may alter the texture and flavor, so it’s best to use as directed.​

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Monitor the cooking time closely, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking requirements.​

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes, for a crunchy topping, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese just before serving.​

Why is my sauce grainy?

Graininess can result from using pre-shredded cheese or overheating. Ensure you use freshly shredded cheese and cook on LOW heat.​The Food Charlatan

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is possible, but the texture may change upon thawing and reheating. Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 months for best results.​

How do I thin out thickened mac and cheese?

Stir in a small amount of warm milk or cream until the desired consistency is achieved.​

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese offers a delightful blend of convenience and indulgence. With its rich, creamy texture and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish promises comfort in every bite

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