The Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni And Cheese

An Irresistible Comfort: The Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Is there anyone who doesn’t absolutely love macaroni and cheese? We’re not talking about bland macaroni and cheese; we’re talking about the kind that’s sticky, satisfying, and warms you up from the inside out. This is the stuff of dreams, and anyone who tastes it will be clamoring for the recipe so they can recreate it whenever the craving hits. Normally, we whip up a creamy, roux-based cheese sauce, bake the pasta, and top it with crunchy, buttered breadcrumbs. But sometimes, we need something quick and easy, and that’s where this standout slow cooker version comes in.

If you can cook pasta al dente and pour ingredients into a slow cooker, you can make incredible macaroni and cheese. The secret to ultimate smoothness lies in the combination of four cheeses, sour cream, evaporated milk, and a variety of seasonings. Toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and you’re done! Stirring the mixture halfway through cooking will reward you with crispy, delicious edges. Trust us, there’s nothing easier, and this version is sure to outshine any traditional method. We love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want comfort food without the fuss. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, requiring minimal effort for maximum satisfaction.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Cheese grater
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients

• 1 packet of 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 package of cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 can of 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

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta al dente, following the instructions on the package for 3 to 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Lightly grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray, then place the macaroni in the bottom.
3. Add the cheddar and provolone cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the evaporated milk over the ingredients and mix well.
5. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 hours or on high heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Tips for Success

Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the slow cooker. Stirring halfway through prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations for a unique flavor. Adding cooked bacon or a dash of hot sauce can add a fun twist!

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different types of pasta? Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of pasta, though cooking times may vary.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook them when you’re ready.

Conclusion

We hope you give this easy slow cooker macaroni and cheese a try and love it as much as we do. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds. If you do make it, we’d love to hear your thoughts or see your photos! Share your experience in the comments below. Enjoy!