This creamy and cheesy Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a recipe that spells comfort with every bite. It's a fantastic choice for family dinners, holidays, or potluck gatherings, and it's especially popular among children. Using a slow cooker makes the preparation straightforward and nearly foolproof, ensuring a velvety, indulgent dish every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, cubed (½ stick)
- 3 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup light sour cream
- 10.75 ounces condensed Cheddar cheese soup (1 can)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Recommended Equipment:
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni. Bring a 2-quart saucepan of water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook for 7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In the same saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: In the crockpot, combine the melted cheese mixture with the beaten eggs, light sour cream, condensed cheddar cheese soup, heavy cream, and milk. Add dry mustard powder, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Stir in the cooked macaroni, ensuring it's well-coated with the cheese mixture. Spread the macaroni evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 1½-2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the mac and cheese doesn't stick to the bottom and that it cooks evenly.
Step 6: Once the mac and cheese is creamy and bubbling, it's ready to serve.
Cooking Note:
Be sure to stir the mac and cheese occasionally during cooking to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the crockpot and to ensure even heat distribution.
Serving Suggestions:
This mac and cheese can be served as a hearty main course or as a satisfying side dish alongside meats like pulled pork, grilled chicken, or a simple green salad for contrast.
Tips:
- Keep it Warm: If not serving immediately, keep the crockpot on the 'keep warm' setting.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 1 month for longer storage.
- Reheating: Reheat in a microwave, on the stove, or back in the slow cooker with a little added milk to restore its creamy texture.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 1½ to 2 hours
Total Time:
- About 2 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Cholesterol: 192mg
- Sodium: 1146mg
- Potassium: 501mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 1510IU
- Vitamin C: 0.3mg
- Calcium: 506mg
- Iron: 1mg
Conclusion
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a quintessential comfort food that combines convenience with creamy, cheesy goodness. It's perfect for any occasion where you need a reliable and delicious dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food that's sure to become a staple at your family gatherings!
PrintCrockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy textures and rich flavors for a delightful dish that's easy to prepare.
Ingredients
2 cups dry elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons salted butter, cubed (½ stick)
3 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
3 large eggs, beaten
½ cup light sour cream
10.75 ounces condensed Cheddar cheese soup (1 can)
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the crockpot, combine butter, cheddar cheese, eggs, sour cream, cheese soup, heavy cream, and milk.
Add the cooked macaroni, dry mustard, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot and creamy.
Notes
For a crispier top, transfer the cooked macaroni and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with additional cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes.
Add-ins like cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or breadcrumbs can be included for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
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