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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe for Easy Homemade Dinner

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A comforting, creamy mac and cheese made effortlessly in the crockpot with a velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups elbow macaroni (about 12 oz or 340 g), uncooked
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 12 oz or 340 g)
  • 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups evaporated milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml), or 2% milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (about 57 g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: paprika or smoked paprika for color and warmth

Instructions

  1. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese and cube the Velveeta. Measure out the uncooked elbow macaroni.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, regular milk, melted butter, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until cream cheese is mostly smooth.
  3. Pour the dry macaroni into the crockpot. Add shredded cheddar and cubed Velveeta on top. Pour the milk mixture evenly over everything. Do not stir yet.
  4. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 2½ hours. After the first hour, gently stir every 30 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should be tender but firm to the bite.
  5. After cooking, stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional cheddar on top and cover for 5 more minutes to melt.
  6. Serve warm. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Notes

Avoid opening the lid too often during cooking to prevent heat loss. Stir gently every 30 minutes after the first hour to prevent sticking. Use full-fat dairy for best texture. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly. If pasta is still firm near the end, add a splash of milk and cook longer. This recipe is forgiving and customizable with different cheeses or mix-ins.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy mac and cheese, crockpot mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy pasta, homemade mac and cheese

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/creamy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-for-easy-homemade-dinner/