Paula Deen’s Ultimate Crockpot Mac and Cheese: The Creamy, Comforting Recipe Everyone’s Raving About!

When it comes to comfort food, Paula Deen's Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a dish that stands out as a true classic. Known for its rich, creamy texture and irresistible cheese blend, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you crave a hearty, satisfying meal. With the convenience of a crockpot, you can set it and forget it while this mac and cheese cooks to perfection.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Creamy and Cheesy: Made with a blend of cheeses that melt beautifully, this mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food.
Convenient Crockpot Cooking: Prep it in the morning and come home to a warm, ready-to-eat dish.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a family or a crowd, this recipe is sure to get rave reviews from everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter (for topping, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and combined. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Cook: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the macaroni evenly. Transfer the mixture to a greased crockpot.

Add Toppings (Optional): For a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese in the crockpot.

Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and heated through. If using the breadcrumb topping, you can add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the mac and cheese hot, straight from the crockpot. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Cheese Selection: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor and melting texture. Sharp cheddar adds great taste, while mozzarella and Parmesan enhance creaminess.
Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the mac and cheese in the crockpot to prevent it from becoming too dry. Stir occasionally if possible.
Add-Ins: Feel free to customize by adding cooked bacon, diced ham, or vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
With a Salad: A fresh green salad or coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
As a Side Dish: Serve as a side with roasted chicken, barbecue ribs, or pork chops.
For Special Occasions: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday dinners.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen’s Ultimate Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the ease of crockpot cooking with the classic flavors of a beloved recipe. With its gooey cheese and hearty texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Make it for your next family meal and enjoy the praise for this irresistibly delicious mac and cheese!

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