Print

Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Topping Easy

creamy slow cooker mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and easy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe that delivers a rich, creamy sauce with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (450 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 3 cups (about 12 oz or 340 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk (2% milk can be used for lighter option)
  • 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated (for topping)
  • 1 cup (50 g) panko breadcrumbs (Japanese style preferred for extra crunch)
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp mustard powder

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 tbsp melted butter and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth with no lumps. Slowly add 3 cups whole milk, whisking as you pour to prevent clumps. Set aside.
  2. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the pasta and toss gently to distribute evenly.
  3. Stir shredded sharp cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese into the roux mixture. Pour this cheesy mixture over the pasta in the slow cooker and gently stir to combine without overmixing.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of milk.
  5. While the mac and cheese cooks, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tbsp melted butter in a small bowl to prepare the topping.
  6. Once cooking is complete, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. If the slow cooker insert is oven-safe, place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp. If not, transfer the mac and cheese to an ovenproof dish before broiling.
  7. Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.

Notes

Stir once halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even melting. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt quality. Broil the breadcrumb topping carefully to avoid burning. You can prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate, adding 30 minutes to cooking time. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute pasta, flour, breadcrumbs, milk, and cheese accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, crispy breadcrumb topping, easy comfort food, cheesy pasta, slow cooker recipes

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/creamy-slow-cooker-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-topping-easy/