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
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Add Cooked Macaroni: Place the cooked elbow macaroni into the slow cooker bowl, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and softened cream cheese cubes until combined with the pasta.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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