why make this recipe
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is an easy and delicious dish that everyone loves. It’s perfect for busy days because you can set it and forget it while it cooks. The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta make for a comforting meal. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or for meal prep!
how to make Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 375 grams uncooked macaroni (1 box, white with fiber)
- 354 ml evaporated or whole milk (about 1 ⅓ cups)
- 1 ¾ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sriracha sauce
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (175g)
Directions:
- Spray a 2.5-4 quart crock pot with non-stick spray.
- Pour in the dry macaroni. Add the evaporated milk, chicken broth, butter, salt, sriracha, ground mustard, and black pepper. Stir everything together, breaking up the butter as much as possible, but it will remain chunky.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 1 hour. Stir well afterward; it might be clumpy, but it will break apart easily.
- Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, meaning slightly firm. Be careful not to cook it too soft at this stage.
- Cut the cream cheese into very small pieces and stir it into the pasta along with the cheddar cheese. Cover and let it sit for 10 minutes before stirring to melt the cheese.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious mac and cheese!
how to serve Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled meats and salads. You can also serve it in individual bowls, topped with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for added texture. It’s a hit at parties and comforting for a cozy night in!
how to store Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-5 days. When you want to reheat it, add a splash of milk to bring back its creaminess.
tips to make Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
- Make sure to stir the ingredients well before cooking to avoid clumps.
- If you want a creamier texture, you can use more cream cheese or add a bit of heavy cream.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
- If you prefer a baked version, you can transfer the finished mac and cheese to a baking dish, top it with breadcrumbs, and broil it for a few minutes.
variation
You can add cooked bacon or cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also try different pasta shapes if you want a fun twist on the classic recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free macaroni?
Yes, gluten-free macaroni works well in this recipe. Just follow the cooking times on the package.
2. How do I make it spicier?
You can add more sriracha sauce or use jalapeño cheese for extra heat.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and keep them in the fridge overnight. Then, just combine them in the crock pot in the morning.
Enjoy making this easy and tasty Crock Pot Mac and Cheese!
