Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, creamy and cheesy with minimal effort. This hands-off recipe lets you enjoy rich, homemade mac and cheese without standing over the stove.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta, uncooked
- 16 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 cups milk of your choice
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Add all ingredients into the slow cooker and stir well to combine.
- Step 2: Cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or add a splash of evaporated milk.
- Try mixing in cooked bacon, jalapeños, or your favorite spices to customize the flavor.
- Use a blend of cheeses like gouda, Monterey jack, or mozzarella for a richer taste.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, most pasta shapes work well, but avoid very small shapes that could overcook quickly. Elbow macaroni or shells are great choices.
Do I need to pre-cook the pasta?
No, the pasta cooks directly in the slow cooker along with the cheese and milk, absorbing all the flavors as it softens.
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Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and comforting Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce made from cheddar, milk, and cream. Perfect for a hands-off meal, it’s easy to prepare by simply adding all ingredients to the slow cooker and letting them cook until perfectly melded and gooey.
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked pasta
- 16 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups milk of your choice
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, heavy cream, butter, salt, onion powder, paprika, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well mixed and the pasta is evenly coated.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook the mixture for 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, set to LOW and cook for 4 to 6 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, until the pasta is tender and the cheese sauce is creamy and fully cooked.
- Serve: Once cooked, give the mac and cheese one final stir and serve hot, enjoying the rich and cheesy comfort dish.
Notes
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but elbow macaroni is traditional.
- If you prefer a thicker cheese sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate some liquid.
- For a sharper flavor, try combining different cheeses like sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Adding a breadcrumb topping and broiling briefly after cooking can add a crispy texture.
- Make sure to stir the mac and cheese occasionally during cooking if your slow cooker allows to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours on HIGH or 4 to 6 hours on LOW
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, slow cooker recipes
