Slow Cooker Cheesy Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a dish that brings instant comfort and a sense of indulgence. Add the convenience of a slow cooker to the mix, and you have a winning combination: Slow Cooker Cheesy Mac and Cheese. This dish takes the beloved classic to new heights with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Get ready to discover how to create this ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, and any occasion that calls for pure cheesy bliss.
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 16 oz |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 3 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Milk | 2 ½ cups |
| Evaporated milk | 12 oz can |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Mustard powder | ½ tsp |
| Paprika | ½ tsp |
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
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Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and butter.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, evaporated milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika.
Step 4: Layering the Ingredients
Start by layering one-third of the cooked macaroni at the bottom of the slow cooker. Follow with a layer of the cheese mixture.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Create two more layers of macaroni and cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
Step 6: Pour the Wet Mixture
Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker.
Step 7: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the mac and cheese is cooked and the cheese is melted and gooey, it’s ready to be served. Dish out portions and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Cheesy Mac and Cheese?
Here are a few reasons why Slow Cooker Cheesy Mac and Cheese should be on your cooking radar:
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe makes preparing mac and cheese a breeze. The slow cooker does the work for you while you attend to other tasks.
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese creates a creamy, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Customizable: Feel free to add variations like crispy bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or sautéed vegetables to personalize the dish.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or casual dinner, this mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with everyone.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or shells.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese in the slow cooker and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, cook it according to the recipe.
Q: Can I substitute the evaporated milk? A: Yes, you can use regular milk instead of evaporated milk. The dish may have a slightly different consistency, but it will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use a combination of cheeses? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q: How do I prevent the mac and cheese from sticking to the slow cooker? A: To prevent sticking, you can coat the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray before layering the ingredients.
Q: Can I add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping? A: Yes, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before cooking for added texture.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Mac and Cheese takes a beloved comfort food and transforms it into a creamy and indulgent delight. With its ease of preparation and rich flavors, this dish is perfect for anyone seeking a satisfying meal that’s both classic and comforting.
