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
Scale
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
