Description
This Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese is an ultra-creamy, rich, and cheesy comfort food that blends sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Perfect for easy family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this recipe uses a slow cooker for effortless preparation and a velvety texture.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
Cheeses
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
Liquids and Butter
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Seasonings
- 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 during cooking.
- Add Pasta and Cheeses: Place the cooked al dente macaroni into the slow cooker. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and cubed softened cream cheese evenly over 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 until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the milk and seasoning mixture over the pasta and cheese in the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the Low setting for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to help melt the cheeses into a creamy sauce and avoid clumping.
- Serve: Once the cheese sauce is melted and smooth, serve the mac and cheese hot. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking to maintain a smooth, creamy cheese sauce and prevent it from becoming grainy.
- For extra flavor, consider stirring in cooked bacon or diced ham before serving.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
