Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese is the epitome of cheesy goodness. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating an irresistibly creamy, smooth texture. The combination of sharp cheddar, American cheese, cream cheese, and Parmesan gives it a complex, rich flavor that will leave you coming back for more. Plus, it’s a hands-off recipe—simply set it in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. With the added bonus of chives for freshness and a dash of mustard, this mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound medium elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups grated American cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes to prevent overcooking in the slow cooker. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping), grated American cheese, cubed cream cheese, and freshly grated Parmesan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, and onion powder. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the slow cooker.
4. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mac and cheese has reached a creamy consistency.
6. Before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh chives for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, jalapeño slices, or hot sauce to give your mac and cheese a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in some steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-packed version of this dish.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stove, add a little milk to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Prepare the macaroni and cheese in a large pot, then melt all the cheeses together over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth.

2. Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Certainly! While this combination of cheddar, American, cream cheese, and Parmesan is ideal for a creamy and flavorful dish, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.

3. How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming too thick in the slow cooker?

If the mac and cheese becomes too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. Stir in the liquid gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stove, adding a little milk if needed.

5. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add extra milk to restore its creamy texture.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if needed. Just make sure to use a large enough slow cooker to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

7. Why do you use both regular milk and evaporated milk?

The combination of whole milk and evaporated milk creates a richer, creamier texture. Evaporated milk adds an extra depth of flavor without making the dish overly thick.

8. Can I use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk?

You can use lower-fat milk, but the mac and cheese might not be as rich or creamy as it would be with whole milk.

9. Can I add more cheese to make it even cheesier?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese to taste. You can experiment with different varieties, like Gruyère or Gouda, for a unique twist.

10. How do I keep the mac and cheese from drying out in the slow cooker?

Stir the mac and cheese occasionally during cooking, and make sure the slow cooker is covered tightly to trap moisture. If it starts to dry out, add a bit of milk to help restore its creaminess.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Four Cheese Mac and Cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the perfect blend of cheeses to create a rich, creamy dish. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a party, or simply as a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy every cheesy craving. The slow cooker does all the work for you, making it an easy and delicious option for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the joy of this comforting classic!

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