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Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe


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3.9 from 75 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and indulgent comfort food featuring a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, it offers a simple, hands-off cooking experience with velvety texture and deep flavor.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente

Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed

Liquid and Seasonings

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Add Cooked Macaroni: Place the cooked elbow macaroni into the slow cooker bowl, spreading it evenly.
  3. Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and softened cream cheese cubes until combined with the pasta.
  4. Mix Liquids and Seasonings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the creamy sauce.
  5. Combine and Cook: Pour the milk and seasoning mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  6. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low heat setting for 2 to 3 hours. Stir the mac and cheese once or twice during cooking to ensure even melting and a smooth, creamy texture.
  7. Serve: Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy, serve hot. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy or separating; 2 to 3 hours on low is ideal.
  • For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or diced ham into the mixture before slow cooking.
  • Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American