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Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping

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A comforting and easy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe featuring creamy cheese sauce and a golden, crispy panko topping, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups dry elbow macaroni (240g)
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (340g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (115g)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720ml)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (24g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (60g)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Measure 3 cups (240g) dry elbow macaroni. No need to pre-cook; it will soften in the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons (56g) melted unsalted butter and 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour until smooth to create a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in 3 cups (720ml) whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder until combined.
  4. Add the dry pasta to the bottom of the slow cooker pot. Pour the milk mixture over it. Sprinkle 3 cups (340g) shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Gently stir to combine without smashing the pasta.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 2½ to 3 hours. Check at 2½ hours by gently stirring to see if the pasta is tender and the cheese melted. The sauce should be creamy with no liquid pooling. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter until evenly coated.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a broiler-safe dish if your slow cooker insert isn’t oven-safe. Spread the panko mixture evenly over the top.
  8. Broil on high for 2-4 minutes, watching carefully until the topping is golden and crispy. Do not walk away as it burns fast.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick before broiling, stir in a splash of milk. If too runny, cook uncovered on LOW for 10-15 minutes to reduce liquid before adding topping. Avoid stirring frequently during cooking to prevent gummy sauce. Broiling the topping is essential for the crispy texture. For gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, crispy topping, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/creamy-slow-cooker-mac-and-cheese-with-crispy-topping-easy-recipe/