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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy for a Crowd

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A rich, cheesy, and creamy mac and cheese made effortlessly in a crockpot, perfect for feeding a large group with minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (450 g)
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 ounces/340 g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 ounces/115 g)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (113 g)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720 ml)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (56 g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (50 g), optional for topping

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 6-7 minutes until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and softened cream cheese. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together whole milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the crockpot. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle the cheese mixture on top without stirring.
  5. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 2½ hours. Stir gently halfway through cooking to incorporate cheese and prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk if sauce becomes too thick.
  6. Optional: Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
  7. Serve warm. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta initially; cook just shy of al dente. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even melting. Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture. Add a splash of milk if sauce thickens too much. For a crunchy topping, broil with panko breadcrumbs. Low and slow cooking prevents cheese from curdling or becoming grainy.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/creamy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-for-a-crowd/