Print

Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

creamy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple, creamy, and comforting slow cooker mac and cheese recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners or busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups elbow macaroni (about 270g)
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 340g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 113g)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (115g)
  • 3 cups milk (whole or 2%) (720 ml)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (56g)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook 3 cups of elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for 5 minutes, slightly undercooked (al dente). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 3 cups of milk until smooth and lump-free.
  3. In the slow cooker insert, add the drained macaroni, 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 4 oz softened cream cheese. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Slowly pour the milk and roux mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often. Around the 1.5-hour mark, give it a gentle stir to prevent the cheese from sticking to the sides.
  6. After 2 hours, check the sauce consistency and seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. If too thick, stir in a splash of milk to loosen.
  7. Serve warm. Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs and broil briefly on the stovetop or under an oven broiler for a crispy topping.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta prevents mushy results. Freshly shred cheese for better melting. Whisk flour, butter, and milk thoroughly to avoid lumps. Use low heat on the slow cooker and stir gently once or twice during cooking. Keep the lid on to maintain heat and cooking time. Customize cheese blends or add mix-ins like steamed broccoli, mushrooms, jalapeños, or cooked bacon for variety.

Nutrition

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

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