Quicky Cooking magic happening... ⚡
Creamy Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese
📹 Video Tutorial from YouTube
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🛒 Quick Ingredients
📋 Complete Ingredients List
💡 Pro tip: Tap items to check them off as you prep!
🍳 Quick Cooking Steps
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray
Add uncooked macaroni to the slow cooker
Pour in whole milk and evaporated milk
Add all three types of cheese to the slow cooker
Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, white pepper, and salt
Pour melted butter over everything
Stir all ingredients until well combined
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through
When done, let sit for 10 minutes before serving to thicken
Stir well before serving to ensure creamy consistency
🔧 Kitchen Tools & Equipment
📋 Complete Tools List
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Box grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving spoon
⚡ Quick Cooking Tips
Use a combination of cheeses for more complex flavor
Add diced jalapeos for a spicy kick
Mix in cooked bacon or ham for added protein
Try different pasta shapes like shells or rotini
Add butternut squash puree for extra nutrients
Top with panko breadcrumbs for the last 30 minutes of cooking
Stir in frozen peas at the end for added vegetables
📊 Nutrition Facts
🔥 Time to Burn Calories
Walking 90min, Running 45min, Cycling 60min
📦 Storage & Meal Prep
🥶 Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days Keep away from strong-smelling foods in refrigerator Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
🔥 Reheating Tips
- Reheat in microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess Stir every 30 seconds while reheating to ensure even heating Can be reheated in slow cooker on LOW for 30 minutes with added milk
⏰ Make Ahead Tips
- Grate cheese up to 2 days in advance Measure and combine dry seasonings ahead of time Bring dairy products to room temperature before cooking for best results
❄️ Freezing Guide
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating May require additional milk when reheating from frozen
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Top with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture Serve with steamed broccoli or peas Pair with a crisp green salad Add crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra protein Garnish with fresh parsley or chives
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using pre-shredded cheese (contains anti-caking agents that affect smoothness) Opening the lid too frequently during cooking Not stirring halfway through cooking time Using low-fat milk products (results in less creamy texture) Overcooking the pasta leading to mushiness
🎨 Recipe Variations
- Buffalo style: Add buffalo sauce and blue cheese Tex-Mex: Include diced tomatoes, green chiles, and taco seasoning Truffle: Add truffle oil and mushrooms Greek: Mix in feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes Lobster: Add cooked lobster meat and Old Bay seasoning
❓ Quick Cooking Q&A
Fresh grated cheese is recommended as it melts better and creates a smoother sauce
This usually happens from overcooking or using pre-shredded cheese. Stick to block cheese and recommended cooking times
Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough. Cooking time remains the same
Make sure to use full-fat dairy products and don't overcook. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
Yes, but it may require additional liquid and cooking time
Don't overcook and check pasta consistency during the last hour
Yes, but it's best served fresh. Reheat with additional milk if needed
Use room temperature cheese and avoid pre-shredded varieties for best results
Yes, but no longer than 2 hours to maintain proper texture
Sharp cheddar provides flavor while American cheese adds creaminess
