Hey, food lovers! Today, I present to you a recipe that will be perfect for days in a rush when one wishes to have something hot, cheesy, and creamy without needing to stay in the kitchen for too long. This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is comfort food at its best, and it’s even easier because your slow cooker does all the work. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or to put together for the family, this recipe is simple, yet simply irresistible!
Vamos comear!
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed
1/2 teaspoon paprika (to sprinkle on top, optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan (optional for added flavor)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little kick)
Step-by-Step Procedure:
Step 1: Crockpot Preparation
Spray the inside of your crockpot with some non-stick cooking spray, or lightly grease with butter.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Place uncooked elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheese in the crockpot.
Add in the whole milk, heavy cream, and evaporated milk. Mix well until incorporated.
Step 3: Add Butter and Seasoning
Mix in the melted butter within the crockpot.
Stir in the ground mustard (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If you desire a little heat, sprinkle in cayenne pepper.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 2-3 hours.
Stir the mixture every 30-45 minutes to avoid the sticking of pasta and to cook it evenly.
Step 5: Checking if Done
Check the consistency of the macaroni after 2 hours. The pasta should be soft, and the cheese must melt and be creamy.
If the pasta requires it, continue to cook for another 30 minutes, or until it is well-cooked, periodically checking.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan, if using
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese to add extra flavor, mainly in the last 10 minutes of cooking, adding more cheesy taste.
Step 7: To Serve and Garnish
When the mac and cheese is creamy and cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve at once, sprinkled with paprika if desired for color.
Tips:
Side: Do not overcook, or the cheese will become too thick and the pasta too soft.
Cheese Variations: This, of course, is up to your discretion, so you might want to consider Gouda or Swiss if you’re looking for something a little different.
Extra Creamy: If you like your mac and cheese even creamier, a little extra milk or cream stirred in before serving is just the ticket.
Timing Table:
| Task | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Prep ingredients | 10 |
| Stir during cooking | Every 30 mins |
| Cook on low | 2-3 hours |
| Total | 2.5-3 hours |
