Indulge in this creamy and comforting dish featuring tender pasta, smoky bacon, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce.
Perfect for potlucks or cozy family dinners!
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 12 oz can evaporated milk
- 2 ½ cups milk
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 oz Velveeta, cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 12 oz frozen broccoli florets, thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Boil salted water. Cook macaroni for 6 minutes. Drain and rinse.
Step 2: Spray slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 3: Add macaroni, butter, evaporated milk, milk, 3 cups cheddar, Velveeta, cream cheese, and dry mustard.
Stir to combine.
Step 4: Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Stir in broccoli and bacon 30 minutes before serving. Cover and cook until broccoli is tender.
Step 6: Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt.
Garnish with extra bacon if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Blanch fresh broccoli first for better texture.
2. How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even melting.
3. Can I substitute the cheddar with other cheeses?
Sure! Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix for unique flavors.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Skip the bacon or use vegetarian bacon alternatives.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Slow Cooker Broccoli Bacon Macaroni & Cheese
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 can evaporated milk 12 oz
- 2 ½ cups milk
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 8 oz Velveeta cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese cubed
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- 1 cup cooked crumbled bacon
- 12 oz frozen broccoli florets thawed
Instructions
- Boil salted water. Cook macaroni for 6 minutes. Drain and rinse.
- Spray slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add macaroni, butter, evaporated milk, milk, 3 cups cheddar, Velveeta, cream cheese, and dry mustard. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in broccoli and bacon 30 minutes before serving. Cover and cook until broccoli is tender.
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt. Garnish with extra bacon if desired.