Prepare to revolutionize your mac and cheese game with the most effortless, mind-blowingly creamy slow cooker recipe that'll make your taste buds dance! Imagine creating a restaurant-quality comfort food masterpiece with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This Easy Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese isn't just a recipe—it's a culinary magic trick that transforms simple ingredients into a decadent, cheesy dream that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure your slow cooker is clean and ready for use.
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- Cut the butter into small cubes and distribute them evenly over the macaroni.
- Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the macaroni and butter, ensuring even coverage.
- Carefully pour the milk over the cheese and macaroni, making sure to moisten all the pasta.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly across the top of the mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 2 hours, without lifting the lid, until the pasta is tender and the cheese is completely melted and creamy.
- After 2 hours, gently stir the macaroni and cheese to ensure even cooking and distribution of cheese.
- Let the macaroni and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor profile and ensure you're using freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results.
- Do not lift the slow cooker lid during cooking, as this releases heat and can increase overall cooking time.
- For extra richness, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- If the mac and cheese seems too thick after cooking, stir in a little warm milk to reach your desired consistency.
- For a crispy top, transfer the finished mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Experiment with cheese blends like adding some Gruyère or monterey jack for more complex flavor.
- Ensure your slow cooker is at least 50% full to prevent overcooking and ensure even heat distribution.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg
