Famous Crock Pot Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this crock pot macaroni and cheese is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The rich cheddar flavor combined with the smooth milk and evaporated milk creates a luscious dish that cooks effortlessly in the slow cooker, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray the crock pot with non-stick spray (e.g., Pam).
- Add all ingredients to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally if desired.
- Double the recipe to fill a large crock pot if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute the sharp cheddar with a blend of Monterey Jack and Gouda for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked macaroni or a gluten-free pasta option for a quick adaptation to suit dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and cheese as a hearty main dish or a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad, such as Cherry'S Salad. For a fun twist, top with breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore creaminess, then microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding milk as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Famous Crock Pot Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 293 calories, with 10g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1528mg per serving (66% 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 different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep the total cheese amount around three cups to maintain the creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to stir well before cooking to ensure even melting of the cheese.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
Consider adding cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition. You can also mix in cooked proteins such as shredded chicken or crumbled turkey sausage to make it a complete meal.
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).