Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with our incredibly easy Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy creamy, cheesy goodness that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a game-changer. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this delicious dish with ease.
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
Instructions:
- Prepare Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the bowl of your slow cooker, combine the cooked macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, provolone cheese, parmesan cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, evaporated milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the macaroni and cheese on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and heated through.
- Serve: Once the macaroni and cheese is cooked to perfection, give it a final stir and serve it hot. Garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Bacon: For a tasty twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the macaroni and cheese before serving.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Gouda, to customize the flavor of your macaroni and cheese.
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the macaroni and cheese mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this macaroni and cheese, replace the elbow macaroni with cooked cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles. Use full-fat cheese and cream cheese, and omit the evaporated milk or use a keto-friendly milk alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk.
- Low-Carb Version: Similarly, for a low-carb version, use low-carb pasta alternatives such as zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Use reduced-fat cheese and cream cheese, and opt for unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk instead of evaporated milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use different pasta shapes? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape in this recipe. Penne, rotini, or shells work well in place of elbow macaroni.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply transfer the mixture to the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can I add additional seasonings or spices? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor of your macaroni and cheese by adding your favorite seasonings or spices, such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning.
The Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni And Cheese is a game-changing recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and minimal effort required, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this macaroni and cheese is sure to be a hit with family and friends. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with this delicious recipe!