Are you ready for a delicious and creamy comfort food that cooks itself? This Crock Pot Mac & Cheese recipe is not just easy; it’s packed with flavor and perfect for any gathering. I’ll show you how to elevate your mac and cheese with the best cheeses and simple tips. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a dish your whole family will love! Let’s dive into making this cheesy dream a reality.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Crock Pot Mac & Cheese?
To make the best creamy mac and cheese, you need simple ingredients. Start with 2 cups of elbow macaroni. This pasta holds the cheese well. Next, add 4 cups of water to cook the pasta in the crock pot.
For the creamy base, you will need 1 cup of cream cheese. This makes the dish rich and smooth. 1 cup of whole milk adds extra creaminess too. Don’t forget ½ cup of sour cream for a tangy flavor.
Now, let’s talk about cheese. The best cheese for mac and cheese includes 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This cheese gives a nice bite. Pair it with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for stretchiness and creaminess. Combine these cheeses for a creamy mac and cheese recipe everyone will love.
You can also add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder for extra flavor. A touch of 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard adds depth. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
You can customize this recipe for dietary needs. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. For a dairy-free option, try nut-based cheeses. These simple swaps let everyone enjoy this dish!
How Do You Prepare Crock Pot Mac & Cheese Step-by-Step?
To make mac and cheese in a slow cooker, follow these simple steps.
What are the Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions?
1. Start by adding 2 cups of elbow macaroni and 4 cups of water to the crock pot. Stir these two ingredients together to mix them well.
2. Cover the crock pot and set it to high. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring every so often. This helps the macaroni cook evenly and prevents it from sticking.
3. After the macaroni is tender, reduce the heat to low. Now, add the cheeses: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1 cup of softened cream cheese.
4. Next, pour in 1 cup of whole milk and ½ cup of sour cream. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for flavor.
5. Stir the mixture until all the cheese melts and combines with the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If you want a crispy topping, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this over the mac and cheese.
7. Cover the crock pot again. Let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, until it’s hot and bubbly.
8. Before serving, stir it again. This helps mix in the topping if you used one.
How Long Should You Cook the Mac & Cheese?
The total cooking time for this mac and cheese is about 1 hour and 10 minutes. The first part takes 30 minutes on high heat. After you add the cheese and other ingredients, you cook it on low for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cooking?
One common mistake is not stirring the macaroni during the first cooking phase. This can cause the pasta to stick together. Another mistake is adding too much liquid. Stick to the recipe to keep the mac and cheese creamy. Lastly, don’t skip the cheese. It is key to getting that rich flavor and smooth texture.
