Olivia Carter
Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and this slow cooker version takes it to a whole new level. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta cooked to perfection is absolutely divine. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
This recipe uses a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, which gives it a rich and gooey texture. The addition of cream cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess, while mustard and Worcestershire sauce give it a subtle tangy flavor. The best part is that all of these ingredients come together effortlessly in the slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it.
Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just craving some indulgent comfort food, this slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is sure to impress. It’s perfect for potlucks, game day parties, or simply a cozy night in. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the best mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients
To make the slow cooker mac and cheese recipe, you will also need a few essential pantry staples. These include butter, which adds richness to the dish, and all-purpose flour to help thicken the cheese sauce. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, and you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Finally, make sure you have a slow cooker with a capacity of at least 4 quarts to accommodate the ingredients and allow for even cooking.
Here is a list of the main ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheese (such as sharp cheddar)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: bacon or breadcrumbs for topping
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Before you can start making the best ever slow cooker mac and cheese, you need to prepare the pasta. This will ensure that your dish has the perfect texture and taste.
To prepare the pasta, begin by boiling a pot of water. Once the water is boiling, add a generous amount of salt. This will help to season the pasta as it cooks. Next, carefully add the pasta to the boiling water. Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package, but be sure to undercook it slightly. The pasta will continue to cook as it simmers in the slow cooker. Once the pasta is cooked to your desired level of doneness, drain it in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Tip: Choose a pasta shape that will hold up well in the slow cooker, such as macaroni, penne, or rotini. Avoid using delicate pasta shapes like angel hair or spaghetti, as they may become mushy during the long cooking time.
Step 2: Making the Cheese Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, it’s time to move on to making the creamy cheese sauce. This step is what really takes this mac and cheese recipe to the next level of deliciousness.
To begin, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. These include butter, flour, milk, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mustard powder, and garlic powder. The butter and flour will create a roux, which will thicken the sauce, while the cheese and other seasonings will add flavor and creaminess.
Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk it together until smooth, creating a roux. Cook the roux for a minute or two, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste.
Next, slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the roux and milk are fully combined. This will create a thick base for the cheese sauce. Make sure to whisk constantly while adding the milk to prevent lumps from forming.
Once the milk is fully incorporated, it’s time to add the cheeses. Gradually add the cheddar cheese and cream cheese, whisking constantly until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. The cream cheese will help add extra creaminess to the sauce, while the cheddar cheese delivers that classic mac and cheese flavor.
Finally, add in the mustard powder and garlic powder, whisking them into the sauce until well combined. These seasonings add a depth of flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
Once the cheese sauce is fully combined and smooth, you can pour it over the cooked pasta in the slow cooker. Use a spoon or spatula to gently fold the sauce into the pasta until it is evenly coated. Be sure to get every nook and cranny of pasta covered with the delicious cheese sauce.
With the cheese sauce made and mixed with the pasta, it’s time to move on to the next step: cooking the mac and cheese in the slow cooker until it’s hot, bubbly and ready to be devoured.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked and the cheese sauce is ready, it’s time to bring them together for the ultimate mac and cheese experience. This step is crucial in ensuring that every bite is infused with cheesy goodness.
To begin, drain the cooked pasta well, making sure to remove any excess water. Transfer the pasta back into the slow cooker and pour the prepared cheese sauce over it. Use a spoon or spatula to carefully mix the pasta and sauce together, ensuring that every strand of pasta is coated in the rich and creamy cheese sauce.
To achieve an even distribution of cheese sauce, gently fold the pasta from the bottom to the top, making sure to not break any of the pasta pieces. Continue mixing until all the pasta is evenly coated in the cheese sauce, and no dry spots remain.
For optimal flavor, let the combined pasta and cheese sauce cook on low heat for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a mac and cheese that is gooey, creamy, and irresistible.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Mac and Cheese
After mixing all the ingredients together, it’s time to slow cook the mac and cheese to perfection. Transfer the creamy mixture to a pre-heated slow cooker. Make sure to grease the interior of the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Set the slow cooker to low heat and cover it with the lid. Let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is fully melted. It’s important not to lift the lid during the cooking process to maintain the heat and ensure even cooking.
Tip: If you prefer a firmer texture for your mac and cheese, you can cook it on high heat for 1 to 2 hours instead.
Once the mac and cheese is cooked to your desired consistency, turn off the slow cooker and let it sit for a few minutes to cool down slightly. The mac and cheese will thicken as it cools.
Serve the slow cooker mac and cheese hot and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness! It makes a delicious side dish for any occasion or a comforting main course on its own. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
10 Best Ever Slow Cooker Mac And Cheese
Ortega Nacho Cheese Sauce Pouch - 4 Pack
Features
| Part Number | 7706068 |
| Model | 7706068 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2023-06-16T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Hamilton Beach 4 Qt Programmable Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | 33443 |
| Model | 33443 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Silver |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2017-07-22T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 4 Quarts |
Nestle Trio Cheese Sauce Mix - 32 Ounce
Pro Kitchen Series Cheeses Reference Book
Features
| Edition | 1 |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 256 |
| Publication Date | 2010-02-01T00:00:01Z |
FAQ
What does it mean to slow cook mac and cheese?
To slow cook mac and cheese means to cook it at a low temperature over a longer period of time, allowing the flavors to develop and the cheese to melt slowly.
What temperature should I set my slow cooker to for mac and cheese?
It is recommended to set your slow cooker to low heat when cooking mac and cheese.
How long should I slow cook mac and cheese?
The cooking time can vary depending on your recipe, but on average, mac and cheese should be slow cooked for about 2-4 hours.
Can I leave my slow cooker unattended while cooking mac and cheese?
It is generally safe to leave a slow cooker unattended while cooking mac and cheese, but it’s always a good idea to check on it occasionally and stir if necessary.
Can I add extra ingredients to mac and cheese while slow cooking?
Yes, you can add extra ingredients such as cooked bacon, vegetables, or different types of cheese to your mac and cheese while slow cooking to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, slow cooking mac and cheese is a delicious and convenient way to achieve a creamy and flavorful dish. By allowing the ingredients to simmer and meld together over a longer period of time, the cheese becomes perfectly melted and the flavors become more pronounced. The slow cooker method also allows for easy preparation and minimal effort, making it a great option for busy individuals or for meals prepared in advance. Whether you’re serving it for a comforting family dinner or for a crowd-pleasing potluck, slow cooked mac and cheese is sure to be a hit. So grab your slow cooker and try this recipe for a mouthwatering and satisfying mac and cheese experience.
