Crock-Pot Style Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy Crock-Pot macaroni features tender pasta in a rich tomato and seasoned cheese sauce, perfect for a comforting meal or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook in crock-pot on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Thirty minutes before serving, add cheese, cooked macaroni, milk, and butter.
- Stir well and continue cooking until heated through.
- Enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding extra cheese or a splash of cream in addition to the milk. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with any cheese of your choice, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for different flavor profiles. If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. This dish also works well with gluten-free macaroni pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Crock-Pot Style Macaroni and Cheese as a main dish or as a side with grilled chicken or barbecue ribs. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dessert, consider serving with Aunt Edith's Coca-Cola Cake to finish off the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to help restore creaminess during reheating. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to two months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Style Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 1058 calories, with 26g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (75% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2492mg per serving (108% 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 make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian as it does not include meat. Ensure that the cheese used is rennet-free and the pasta is made without egg for a fully vegetarian dish. You can also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare all the ingredients and assemble the dish in the crock-pot a day in advance. Keep it in the refrigerator overnight, and then cook it on the day you plan to serve it. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if it’s starting cold from the refrigerator.
What can I do if the cheese doesn't melt properly?
If the cheese isn't melting smoothly, consider using a combination of cheeses for better melting properties, such as a blend of Cheddar and mozzarella. Also, make sure to add the cheese towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from overcooking, which can cause it to become grainy.
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).