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–+ servings
comforting slow cooked pasta dish

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

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This creamy, hands-off Crock Pot Mac and Cheese delivers the ultimate comfort food experience without constant attention. The combination of evaporated milk and sharp cheddar creates a velvety texture with that perfect cheese pull, while subtle onion adds unexpected depth of flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons minced onions
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup butter melted
  • 1 (13 ounce) evaporated milk
  • 8 cups macaroni cooked and drained
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1½ cups milk

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Large pot
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Cook 8 cups of macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
  2. Toss the hot pasta with canola oil immediately after draining to prevent sticking during slow cooking.
  3. Add the oil-coated macaroni to the slow cooker.
  4. Add milk, salt, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, melted butter, and minced onions to the slow cooker.
  5. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, ensuring cheese is evenly distributed.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours.
  7. Stir gently halfway through cooking time, adding a splash more milk if mixture appears too thick.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcal

Notes

For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef, diced ham, chicken, or sliced sausage before cooking. Feel free to experiment with cheese combinations - try mixing in smoked gouda or pepper jack for flavor variation. A sprinkle of cajun spice or taco seasoning can add an exciting twist to this classic dish.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess, as the pasta will continue to absorb moisture during storage.

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