Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese
Few dishes bring the same level of nostalgia and comfort as mac and cheese. This creamy, cheesy delight is a staple for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. But have you ever wondered how to elevate this classic dish with minimal effort? Enter the Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese, a recipe that combines convenience and indulgence for a dish that will become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the best recipe for slow cooker mac and cheese, packed with flavor and designed to satisfy any craving.
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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese
To achieve the ultimate cheesy goodness, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni pasta | 3 cups (uncooked) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Shredded Colby cheese | 1 cup |
| Butter (softened) | 3 tablespoons |
| Half and half | 3 cups |
| Cheddar cheese condensed soup | 1 can (15 ounces) |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheesy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the half and half with the condensed cheddar cheese soup. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This will form the creamy base that ties the dish together.
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2. Add Seasonings
Mix in the ground black pepper and smoked paprika. These spices provide depth and a subtle smoky flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
3. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Start with a layer of uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Add a layer of shredded cheddar and Colby cheeses.
- Drop small dollops of softened butter over the cheese layer.
- Pour a portion of the cheesy base over the top.
4. Repeat the Layers
Continue layering with the remaining ingredients in the same order:
- Pasta
- Cheese blend
- Butter dollops
- Cheesy base
5. Mix Gently
Using a wooden spoon, gently stir the layers to ensure even distribution without breaking up the pasta.
6. Cook on Low
Set the slow cooker to the low setting. Cover and cook for approximately 3 hours. Avoid opening the lid during this time, as it releases heat and prolongs cooking.
7. Check for Doneness
After 3 hours, test the pasta for tenderness. It should be perfectly cooked, and the cheese should be fully melted. If needed, cook for an additional 15-30 minutes.
8. Serve and Savor
Once done, give the mac and cheese a final stir to blend the melted cheese throughout. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
