Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This slow cooker Velveeta mac and cheese recipe is your answer. It's the ultimate easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend evenings. Get ready to experience the ultimate cheesy goodness with minimal effort. This homemade cooking masterpiece is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Start by cubing the Velveeta cheese. This helps it melt more quickly and evenly in the slow cooker. Smaller cubes are better! Grab all your other ingredients and measure them out. This makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, butter, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using). Stir gently to combine.
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Add Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the slow cooker. Gently stir to coat all the pasta with the cheese and soup mixture. Make sure there's enough liquid to cover the pasta.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours, or until the pasta is cooked through and the cheese is completely melted and creamy. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the mac and cheese is cooked, give it a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious, healthy meal!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Crock Pot Mac and Cheese:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Start checking for doneness around the minimum cooking time.
- Stir Regularly: Stirring halfway through prevents sticking and ensures even cooking and melting of the cheese.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize! Consider adding cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or your favorite vegetables for a more substantial meal. Chopped broccoli or spinach are great additions!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would be delicious.
- Different Soup: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This slow cooker Velveeta mac and cheese recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy. It's a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and comforting. Enjoy this easy and healthy meal option that's perfect for any occasion! This best recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!