Print

Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy Homemade Comfort Meal

creamy crockpot mac and cheese recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and easy-to-make creamy mac and cheese cooked slowly in a crockpot, delivering rich, gooey cheese sauce and tender pasta without fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (12 oz / 340 g) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk (2% milk can be used)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Measure 3 cups (12 oz / 340 g) of uncooked elbow macaroni; no need to boil beforehand.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons (56 g) melted unsalted butter and 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour until smooth to make a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk and 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (if using) to the roux.
  4. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Pour the milk mixture over the dry pasta in the slow cooker.
  6. Sprinkle in 2 cups sharp cheddar and 1 cup Gruyère cheese, stirring gently to combine evenly.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring every hour if possible to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  8. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
  9. Once cooked and creamy, give a final stir. Optionally, top with extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs and cover for 5 more minutes to melt or crisp the topping.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Notes

Avoid cooking longer than 3 hours to prevent pasta from becoming mushy. Stir every hour to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor. Add milk by tablespoon if sauce thickens too much. Roux is key for smooth, thick sauce.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/creamy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-meal/