Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal that requires minimal effort? Then look no further! This slow cooker Velveeta macaroni and cheese recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget slaving over a stovetop – this recipe delivers creamy, dreamy mac and cheese with the ease of your slow cooker. It's a crowd-pleaser that's both incredibly simple and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and homemade cooking enthusiasts. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 (16-ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness!)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well blended. The cheese will start to melt slightly as it sits.
- Add Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the slow cooker, stirring to ensure the pasta is coated in the cheese sauce.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is completely melted and creamy. Stir halfway through to prevent sticking.
- Stir and Serve: Once cooked, give the mac and cheese a good stir. If you're using it, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and allow it to melt slightly from the residual heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese:
- Don't Overcook: Keep a close eye on your macaroni during the last hour of cooking. Overcooked macaroni can become mushy. If it seems ready before the full cooking time, just turn the slow cooker off.
- Milk Matters: Using whole milk will create a richer, creamier sauce. You can experiment with other types of milk, but the results may vary slightly in texture and richness.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would be delicious, or try adding some pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Delicious Variations:
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon into the mac and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of chopped, steamed broccoli florets during the last hour of cooking.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Add 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken and 1/4 cup of buffalo wing sauce during the last hour.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This slow cooker Velveeta macaroni and cheese recipe is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food. It's perfect for easy weeknight meals and offers plenty of opportunities for customization. Enjoy this delicious and easy homemade recipe!