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Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe

Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 12 reviews

This creamy and comforting Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese blends sharp cheddar, American, cream cheese, and Parmesan into a rich and velvety sauce, perfectly cooked with tender elbow macaroni in a convenient slow cooker. It’s an effortless, crowd-pleasing dish ideal for cozy family meals or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound medium elbow macaroni

Cheeses

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 cups grated American cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Dairy & Liquids

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients: Place the elbow macaroni, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated American cheese, cubed cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese into a 4-quart slow cooker, evenly distributing the cheeses over the pasta.
  2. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the whole milk and evaporated milk, then stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, and onion powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure the macaroni is mostly submerged in the liquid. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.
  3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 90 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes. Stir the mixture every hour to prevent sticking and promote even cooking until the macaroni is tender and the cheese sauce is creamy.
  4. Finish with cheese: Uncover the slow cooker and stir in the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted completely. If the mac and cheese has become too thick, gradually add a splash more milk to reach the desired creamy consistency.
  5. Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

  • Stirring every hour during cooking helps prevent the macaroni from sticking to the sides and ensures even melting of cheeses.
  • If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, increase the amount of sharp cheddar or add a bit of smoked paprika for depth.
  • This recipe can be prepared a day ahead; simply reheat gently on low in the slow cooker or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
  • For added texture, consider topping with toasted breadcrumbs and broiling for a few minutes before serving.
  • Use full-fat dairy products for the creamiest results. Reduced-fat milks might result in a less rich sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker mac and cheese, four cheese mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, slow cooker recipes

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/slow-cooker-four-cheese-mac-and-cheese-recipe/