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Easy Cozy Crockpot Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon

cozy crockpot mac and cheese with crispy bacon - featured image
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This creamy, comforting crockpot mac and cheese is made with simple ingredients and topped with crispy bacon. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
  • 2 cups whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs, toasted (optional)
  • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, flipping once, until deep golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, crumble or chop into small pieces. Set aside.
  2. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente (1-2 minutes less than package directions). Drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
  3. Grease a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray. Add the cooked pasta. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the top. Add the remaining butter pieces, mustard powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Pour the evaporated milk and whole milk over everything. Stir well to combine, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed and the pasta is well-coated.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir gently halfway through. If it looks too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, it will thicken as it cooks.
  6. Once creamy and tender, turn off the slow cooker. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to set up slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy bacon crumbles over the top. Optionally, add toasted panko breadcrumbs and fresh chives or parsley. Serve straight from the crockpot.

Notes

Grate your own cheese for the smoothest sauce. Do not add bacon during cooking; keep it separate and sprinkle on just before serving to maintain crunch. For best texture, cook pasta just shy of al dente. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat with a splash of milk. Freezing is not recommended.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, bacon mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/easy-cozy-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-with-crispy-bacon/