Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
2 hrs 35 mins
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Total Time
2 hrs 55 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
Description
Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese begins by layering elbow macaroni with cheddar, American cheese, cream cheese, and Parmesan in a slow cooker. Milk, evaporated milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, and onion powder are added to develop a subtly seasoned, creamy base.
The dish cooks slowly on low heat, with periodic stirring, to ensure the pasta cooks through and the cheeses melt evenly, resulting in a velvety consistency. Additional cheddar is stirred in just before serving to boost the cheesy flavor and create a melty finish.
Garnishing with fresh chives adds a mild onion note and color contrast. This comforting mac and cheese can be served as a side or main and appeals to cheese lovers seeking a rich, hands-off preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni medium
- 2 cups cheddar cheese divided, shredded sharp
- 2 cups American cheese grated
- 4 ounces cream cheese cubed
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- 3 cups milk whole
- 1 evaporated milk 12-ounce can
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons chives chopped fresh
Instructions
- Place macaroni, 1 cup cheddar cheese, American cheese, cream cheese and Parmesan into a 4-qt slow cooker.
- Stir in milk, evaporated milk, Dijon, paprika and onion powder, making sure the macaroni is submerged as much as possible; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 90 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes, stirring every hour until tender and creamy.* Uncover and stir in remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese until melted, about 2-3 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chives, if desired.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker brand and size; check macaroni tenderness periodically.
- Stirring every hour helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.
- If the mixture thickens too much, add additional milk to adjust consistency before serving.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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