Description
This creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese recipe offers a rich and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Combining elbow macaroni with a blend of cheddar and Velveeta cheeses, evaporated milk, and sour cream, it slow cooks to a velvety smooth texture that’s easy to prepare with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly, preventing overcooking during the slow cooking process.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the evaporated milk, regular milk, sour cream, and melted butter. Whisk these ingredients well to create a smooth and creamy base for the mac and cheese sauce.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cubed Velveeta cheese along with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Mix until the cheeses start to blend evenly into the liquid mixture.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated evenly with the cheesy sauce.
- Cook in the Crock Pot: Transfer the entire mixture to a crock pot. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to promote even melting of the cheeses. The sauce will become rich, creamy, and fully melted during this time.
- Serve: Once the mac and cheese is creamy, hot, and thoroughly cooked, serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish as a satisfying main or side.
Notes
- Cooking the pasta just until al dente prevents mushy texture after slow cooking.
- Stir the mac and cheese occasionally during crock pot cooking to avoid cheese sticking to the sides and bottom.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- For extra creaminess, add a little more evaporated milk or sour cream.
- Use a non-stick crock pot insert or spray lightly to avoid sticking.
- Optional paprika adds a mild smoky flavor and color; feel free to omit or replace with cayenne for heat.
