The Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni And Cheese
Is there anybody who doesn’t absolutely love mac and cheese? We’re not talking about bland macaroni and cheese; we’re talking about amped-up, cheesy, gooey goodness that both fills and warms you up.
The kind of dish that dreams are made of, leaving everyone who tries it begging for the recipe so they can recreate the deliciousness whenever the craving hits. Normally, one of our favorite ways to make mac and cheese involves a bit more effort—we usually make a roux-based, creamy cheese sauce, cook the pasta, then mix it all together, add a crispy butter breadcrumb topping, and bake it in the oven.
This time, we needed something quick and easy—and we hit it out of the park, if we do say so ourselves! If you can cook your pasta so it’s al dente and pour ingredients into a slow cooker, you can make amazing macaroni and cheese. That’s the beauty of this recipe. So, what are we using here to achieve the ultimate creaminess? Plenty of cheeses—four to be exact—sour cream, evaporated milk, and lots of seasoning to ensure your dish packs a punch.
Simply add them to your slow cooker along with the pasta, turn it on, and walk away. That’s it! If you can stir your pasta mixture halfway through cooking, great; if not, even more yummy, crispy edges for you to enjoy later on. Trust us, it doesn’t get easier than this, and this mac and cheese gives any traditionally-baked version a run for its money. We love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker macaroni and cheese is perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal with minimal effort. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make that it’s practically foolproof. Plus, the cheesy, crispy edges are irresistible!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Slow cooker
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz.) package elbow macaroni, cooked
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup provolone cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 3-4 minutes shy of directions on the packaging. Drain and set aside.
- Lightly grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray, then place the macaroni in the bottom.
- Add the cheddar and provolone cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard powder, and nutmeg, then season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the evaporated milk over the ingredients, then stir everything together.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 hours or on high for 1, stirring occasionally.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the slow cooker.
- Stirring occasionally helps to ensure even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Grate your own cheese for the best melting results; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate them, but for the best texture, cook the macaroni and cheese just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this easiest slow cooker macaroni and cheese. It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you! Feel free to share your variations and tips in the comments below. Happy cooking!