Crock Pot Mac-N-Cheese
Creamy, cheesy crock pot mac and cheese with sharp cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray crock pot with non-stick spray.
- Mix milk, evaporated milk, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper together.
- Pour the mixture into the crock pot.
- Add elbow macaroni and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you want to add a flavor twist, try incorporating cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also substitute the sharp Cheddar with a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Ensure to stir the mixture halfway through cooking for even consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich Crock Pot Mac-N-Cheese as a comforting main dish or a delightful side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. For a delicious twist, consider serving it alongside A Friend'S Bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk to help retain moisture, covering it to prevent drying out. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock Pot Mac-N-Cheese contains roughly 549 calories, with 20g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (50% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1793mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free pasta may cook faster. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking and ensure a perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this dish without eggs?
Yes, you can omit the egg if desired. The egg acts as a binder, but the mac and cheese will still turn out creamy and delicious without it. You might consider adding a little extra cheese to maintain creaminess.
Can I add protein to this mac and cheese?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked proteins such as shredded chicken, ground beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just add them in during the last hour of cooking to heat through without compromising the mac and cheese's texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).