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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

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A creamy, comforting mac and cheese made effortlessly in a slow cooker, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (9 ounces / 255 grams) uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (12 ounces / 340 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese (4 ounces / 115 grams) (optional but recommended)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56 grams), divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Breadcrumb topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 grams)

Instructions

  1. Measure 3 cups (9 ounces / 255 grams) of uncooked elbow macaroni and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, melt 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of butter. Stir in 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour until smooth to make the roux base.
  3. In the slow cooker, pour 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk and 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream. Whisk in the butter-flour mixture until fully incorporated to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the uncooked macaroni, 3 cups (12 ounces / 340 grams) shredded sharp cheddar, and 1 cup (4 ounces / 115 grams) smoked gouda (if using). Gently stir to combine evenly.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir every 30 minutes after the first hour to prevent sticking and check pasta doneness; it should be tender but not mushy.
  7. While the mac and cheese cooks, melt 2 tablespoons (28 grams) butter and mix with 1 cup (50 grams) panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
  8. Once pasta is tender and sauce is creamy, transfer mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish if your crockpot isn’t broiler-proof. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
  9. Place under a preheated broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crunchy.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm and fresh.

Notes

Do not over-stir during cooking to avoid gummy pasta. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and flavor. Watch breadcrumb topping closely under broiler to prevent burning. For thicker sauce, reduce milk or add extra cheese; for thinner sauce, add a splash of milk. Breadcrumb topping can be prepared ahead and refrigerated. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy mac and cheese, crockpot mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, crispy breadcrumb topping, comfort food, easy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/creamy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-breadcrumb-topping-easy-and-perfect/