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Irresistible Crockpot Mac and Cheese No-Boil Recipe Easy and Creamy Delight

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A creamy, cheesy crockpot mac and cheese recipe that requires no boiling of pasta, perfect for busy days and comfort food lovers. This no-boil method delivers rich, melty mac and cheese with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (270g) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups (340g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 cup (225g) cubed Velveeta or cream cheese (optional)
  • 3 cups (720ml) whole milk (or 2%)
  • 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional add-ins: smoked paprika, mustard powder, cooked bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Measure out 3 cups (270g) of uncooked elbow macaroni, shred 3 cups (340g) of cheddar cheese, and cube 1 cup (225g) of Velveeta or cream cheese if using. Soften 4 tablespoons (60g) of butter at room temperature.
  2. In the crockpot, add the uncooked pasta, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently to distribute the seasonings.
  3. Layer the shredded cheddar and cubed Velveeta evenly over the pasta. Pour in 3 cups (720ml) of whole milk, then dot the softened butter on top. Do not stir yet.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. The pasta will absorb the milk and soften while the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
  5. At about 1.5 hours, gently stir the mac and cheese with a wooden or silicone spatula to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  6. After 2.5 to 3 hours, test the pasta for tenderness. It should be soft but not mushy. If needed, cook another 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Once cooked, stir thoroughly to combine all the melted cheese and creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve warm. Optionally, sprinkle with extra shredded cheese or crispy breadcrumbs and broil briefly for a crunchy topping.

Notes

Do not lift the lid too often during cooking to maintain heat. Stir gently halfway through cooking to prevent sticking. If the mac and cheese is too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of milk to loosen. Avoid high heat settings to prevent curdling or scorching. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly and adjust cooking times.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot mac and cheese, no-boil mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/irresistible-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-no-boil-recipe-easy-and-creamy-delight/